Introduction: Brac PhD Program Launch Raises Eyebrows
Brac University has drawn criticism by launching a joint PhD program with SOAS, University of London, despite the University Grants Commission (UGC) not yet finalizing policy allowing private universities in Bangladesh to offer doctoral degrees.
Ministry Approval Bypasses UGC Framework
The PhD program was approved by the Ministry of Education on June 1, just before the Eid holidays, bypassing UGC’s ongoing efforts to establish a regulatory framework. UGC Secretary Dr. Md. Fakhrul Islam confirmed he only learned of the approval on the day of the launch, June 16.
UGC and Higher Education Experts Raise Concerns
Dr. Fakhrul and other UGC officials argue that under the Private University Act 2010, no program can launch without UGC’s recommendation. The Act only recognizes undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, excluding PhD programs.
Professor A.B.M. Obaidul Islam of Bangladesh Open University, a member of the UGC subcommittee developing the PhD policy, called for an investigation into how approval was granted before the framework was completed.
UGC Policy Still in Development
UGC began drafting the PhD policy in June 2024, but an initial committee was dissolved in August. A new seven-member team is now reportedly close to finalizing the framework, which will cover faculty qualifications, research facilities, and publication standards.
Brac University and Ministry Officials Respond
Chairman Prof. S.M.A. Faiaz defended the move, describing the program as a joint research initiative under SOAS’s academic policies. He argued that delaying such programs could hold back private sector innovation in research for another decade.
Assistant Secretary Md Sultan Ahmed clarified that approval came from a senior adviser based on Brac’s January 7 application. Joint Secretary Mosammat Rokhsana Begum claimed no knowledge of the approval, as it occurred during her leave.
Implications for Private Universities in Bangladesh
The launch could set a precedent for other private universities to pursue similar programs before national policy is enacted. UGC officials warn this could lead to regulatory confusion, potential corruption, and weakened academic standards.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Higher Education Policy
The Brac-SOAS PhD program highlights the growing friction between institutional autonomy and regulatory oversight in Bangladesh’s evolving higher education system. As UGC finalizes its policy, this case may become a benchmark for future decisions affecting private universities and international academic partnerships.