Brac University Vision and Mission
Brac University: A Pioneer in Transforming Higher Education in Bangladesh
Over the past two decades, the landscape of higher education in Bangladesh has undergone a significant transformation, particularly in the private sector. At the heart of this transformation stands Brac University—a visionary institution founded in 2001 by Fazle Hasan Abed. Guided by a mission to provide world-class education aligned with ethical leadership and social responsibility, Brac University has emerged as a leader in innovation, research and global academic collaboration.
Brac University Vision: Education for National Development
Fazle Hasan Abed envisioned Brac University as more than an academic institution—it was to be a catalyst for national development. He believed that higher education must be inclusive, timely, and globally relevant to empower students to lead change both locally and internationally. From inception, the university embraced an international curriculum, research-driven pedagogy, and an emphasis on ethics and leadership, aiming to cultivate responsible global citizens.
Brac University Mission:
A) Academic Excellence with a Purpose
Today, Brac University comprises 9 schools, 6 departments, 3 institutes, and 5 centers, offering programs in fields such as business, engineering, data science, public health, and architecture. With a blend of theory and practical application, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to tackle real-world challenges.
State-of-the-art labs, international faculty, field-based research, and hands-on learning are core elements of the academic experience. Students actively contribute to international publications, conferences, and collaborative research, ensuring their education is globally competitive and locally impactful.
B) Leadership in Research and Innovation
Brac University consistently leads Bangladesh in research investment. In 2020, the university allocated over 16% of its budget to research—more than any other university in the country.
Its diverse research ecosystem includes:
- James P. Grant School of Public Health: Tackling public health, gender, and reproductive rights.
- Brac Institute of Governance and Development: Addressing poverty, digital inclusion, and climate resilience.
- Brac Institute of Educational Development: Innovating in early childhood education and pedagogy.
- Center for Climate Change and Environmental Research: Advancing sustainability, renewable energy, and disaster resilience.
- Center for Entrepreneurship Development: Supporting startups and social innovation.
- Center for Peace and Justice: Promoting human rights and conflict resolution.
Notably, the university launched the ‘Quality Journal Publication Award’ to recognize high-impact research. In 2025 alone, 145 international publications were credited to 57 faculty members.
Brac University also boasts technological innovations like Bangladesh’s first nanosatellite (BRAC Onnesha) and award-winning robotics projects—testament to its growing leadership in STEM fields.
C) Global Connections, Local Impact
Through partnerships with institutions like MIT, Harvard, Stanford and University of Manchester; Brac University provides unparalleled opportunities for student exchange, joint research and global education.
Its active role in the Open Society University Network allows students to collaborate with peers across continents, enhancing global awareness, cultural competence, and employability.
Registrar Dr. David Dowland remarks, “Our international collaborations ensure our students gain global exposure and intercultural understanding, positioning them to thrive in a connected world.”
D) A Green, Future-Ready Campus
The university’s new permanent campus in Merul Badda is a bold step into the future. As Bangladesh’s first eco-friendly campus, it integrates sustainability and smart design. Features include:
- 50% open green space
- Rainwater harvesting and water recycling
- Solar energy systems
- Green roofing and composting for waste management
The campus not only supports a vibrant learning environment but also serves as a model for sustainable urban development in South Asia.
E) Holistic Student Life and Leadership
Beyond academics, Brac University fosters personal growth through 33 student-run clubs. These provide platforms for debate, robotics, language learning, entrepreneurship, and more. Career fairs connect students with top national and international employers, while workshops enhance practical and leadership skills.
Alumni from Brac University now work at the World Bank, ADB, Apple, Amazon, and leading research institutions. Many have also become successful entrepreneurs and social innovators.
F) Unique Residential Semester
A hallmark of the university is the Residential Semester at the Savar campus. Students live and learn in a community-oriented environment, engaging in leadership training, cultural activities, and field visits to BRAC’s development programs.
This experience fosters empathy, social awareness, and a deep understanding of grassroots realities—transforming students into civic-minded, ethical leaders.
As alumnus Tausif Monawar notes, “The Residential Semester helped us reconnect with real-life challenges and shaped our values and worldview in profound ways.”
Vision for the Future
With an updated mission focused on inclusivity, sustainability, and impactful research, Brac University aims to be a global leader in higher education. Strategic priorities include:
- Launching programs in AI, public health, public policy, women’s education, and climate change
- Strengthening ties between Brac and Brac University for greater social synergy
- Cultivating “global citizens” equipped with empathy, ethics, and innovation
Vice-Chancellor Professor Farhat Anwar affirms, “We envision a sustainable future led by the Global South, and we are ready to educate leaders who will build that future.”
Conclusion
Brac University today is not just an academic institution—it is a movement. A commitment. A reflection of a broader mission to redefine education as a force for good. By integrating academic rigor with social purpose, global vision with local relevance, and sustainability with innovation, Brac University has set a benchmark for 21st-century higher education in Bangladesh and beyond.