Desk Report:
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has called upon universities to take the lead in building a technology-driven, merit-based, and knowledge-based society.
The Minister made this call while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting held at the central auditorium of Jagannath University in Dhaka on Monday (November 2, 2026), marking the university’s 21st founding anniversary.
The Minister stated that to meet the challenges of the 21st century and build a modern Bangladesh, it is essential to look beyond traditional education and foster technological knowledge and intellectual development. To this end, the country’s universities must step forward to promote innovative research, the application of modern information technology, and merit-based education.
The Minister further emphasized that, in the interest of the nation and the welfare of its people, initiatives aimed at public good should be sustained, even amidst political transitions. He asserted that our core principle should be: “Bangladesh first, the people first.” A nation is more than just a territory or a flag; it represents the collective self-determination and sense of ownership held by its people.
Recalling the history of Jagannath University’s establishment, the Minister noted that the process of transforming the institution into a university began in 1995, driven by the dedicated efforts of student leaders—including the late Nasiruddin Pintu—and the firm commitment of national leader Begum Khaleda Zia. Subsequently, during the tenure of the BNP-led government in 2005, Jagannath University College was officially elevated to a full-fledged university through an act passed in the National Parliament. He mentioned that, in addition to the current campus, work is underway to develop a new, independent campus spanning 200 acres in Keraniganj, which will feature modern residential facilities. He also assured that the government maintains a positive stance toward addressing the legitimate demands of the students.
Regarding the education system and higher education, the Minister remarked that a nation cannot prosper merely by accumulating academic certificates or achieving a ‘GPA-5’; rather, qualitative transformation and research-oriented education are indispensable. Universities should evolve into centers for the cultivation of free thought and advanced research, rather than serving merely as gateways to employment. Emphasizing technical and technological education, the speaker noted that instead of remaining unemployed after earning general academic degrees, individuals should be transformed into a skilled and trained workforce capable of meeting the demands of the modern world.
Highlighting the importance of keeping pace with the semiconductor industry, artificial intelligence (AI), and a technology-driven modern economy, the minister stated that to remain competitive in the future, it is essential to move beyond traditional systems by fostering innovative ideas, technology-based knowledge, and a talent-driven workforce. He urged the younger generation to step forward and contribute to building a prosperous Bangladesh—upholding the spirit of the 2024 mass uprising, embracing patriotism, and maintaining national unity.
The event was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor of Jagannath University, Professor Dr. Md. Rais Uddin. Special guests included Mia Nuruddin Ahammad Apu, a Whip of the National Parliament, and Anisur Rahman Talukdar, Member of Parliament for the Madaripur-3 constituency.
Notably, the day-long celebrations for Jagannath University Day 2024 featured a variety of activities, including the hoisting of the national flag, a celebratory rally, an art exhibition, discussion sessions, prayer gatherings, cultural programs, and a concert.
