The University of Dhaka (DU) will mark its 105th anniversary on July 1, 2026, focusing on the theme “Restoration of Democracy and Dhaka University in Higher Education.” This milestone prompts a deep reflection on DU’s role in nation-building and political movements over the past century, from the Language Movement in 1952 to the recent 2024 mass uprising.
Despite its historical significance, DU has faced criticism in recent times, with debates questioning its status as a respected institution versus being labeled as a “coaching centre” or a “sinking ship.” The changing landscape of global university rankings emphasizes the need for measurable performance indicators. DU recognized this shift by participating in ranking platforms like QS and Times Higher Education (THE) since 2011.
However, DU has struggled to secure a high position in global rankings, often placing in lower tiers. In contrast, universities like the National University of Singapore and the University of Malaya have successfully improved their rankings through strategic reforms and talent acquisition initiatives.
To revitalize DU’s academic standing, a shift in focus towards “brain circulation” is essential. Drawing insights from experiences in Malaysia and China, where talent acquisition programs have attracted global expertise, similar strategies could benefit DU’s academic rejuvenation. Leveraging the pool of talented students at DU and implementing reforms centered on students, such as robust PhD programs and incentivized research publications, could propel the institution towards academic excellence.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has acknowledged the need for intervention to enhance DU’s research output. Implementing a talent-first renewal model, inspired by successful practices in East Asia, could be a transformative step for DU and other public universities in Bangladesh. By actively engaging diaspora academics and foreign scholars, DU can pave the way for a brighter future in higher education.
Dr. M Niaz Asadullah, a professor of economics at Dhaka University and senior fellow at IDEAS in Malaysia, emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to elevate DU’s academic standing and calls for collaborative efforts to realize the full potential of Bangladesh’s higher education landscape.
