Bangladesh to launch third language programs in 50 universities

The University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh plans to launch third language education programs in 50 universities by December this year. This initiative aims to enhance higher education and employment opportunities for students both domestically and internationally, fulfilling a government electoral pledge.

During the inauguration of the Confucius Institute at Chittagong University—a joint venture between Chittagong University and China's Yunnan Minzu University—UGC member Professor Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun stated that the program will focus on languages including Mandarin, Japanese, German, Korean, and Arabic. Mandarin is being prioritized due to Bangladesh's economic ties with China in sectors such as technology, trade, and infrastructure.

The UGC intends to establish specialized language centers across all divisional regions. To ensure quality, the commission will seek cooperation from relevant embassies and work to secure foreign and local language experts, as well as necessary teaching materials. The initiative also seeks to facilitate academic collaborations, such as dual and joint degrees, to increase the global competitiveness of Bangladeshi students.