The French Development Agency (AFD) has expressed its interest in supporting Bangladesh’s higher education institutions to develop skilled human resources in six key sectors: human resource development, smart agriculture, readymade garments industry, renewable energy, environmental development, and water management.

In a meeting with the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, AFD’s Managing Director, Arnold de Nadayac, conveyed this interest. Both parties agreed to promptly prepare a concept paper and sign a memorandum of understanding on the matter. A three-member AFD delegation participated in the meeting on Monday. 

Chaired by UGC Member Prof Dr. Mohammad Tanjimuddin Khan, the meeting was attended by UGC member Prof  Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Secretary Dr. Md. Fakhrul Islam, Director of the Planning and Development Division Mohammad Maksudur Rahman Bhuiya, Director (Additional Charge) of the International Cooperation Division Jesmin Parveen, and other relevant officials.

Prof  Tanjimuddin Khan highlighted the historical ties between Bangladesh and France, noting that French universities are renowned for producing skilled professionals in fashion design, hospitality management, and financial management. He suggested that AFD could assist in enhancing the capacity of Bangladeshi universities in these areas. He also expressed that agricultural and textile universities in Bangladesh could collaborate with AFD to improve the quality of education and research in agriculture and textiles. Additionally, he urged AFD to provide technical assistance in water management, environmental development, the readymade garments industry, and addressing climate change.

He assured that the UGC would extend full cooperation if AFD undertakes any project in these areas.

AFD’s Managing Director, Arnold de Nadayac, stated that a concept paper for the new project would be prepared promptly, with the project’s scope determined based on Bangladesh’s needs. He expressed hope for UGC’s cooperation in implementing the project. Under this initiative, AFD aims to support human resource development in universities, focusing on skilled workforce creation, the readymade garments industry, water management, climate change, and renewable energy, as well as curriculum development.

During the meeting, AFD called for the establishment of daycare centers in UGC and universities across the country to enhance women’s participation and employment opportunities. In response, Professor Tanjimuddin Khan stated that the UGC would submit a proposal to the relevant ministry on this matter. He noted that universities face manpower and financial constraints in setting up daycare centers.

The meeting also discussed the UGC’s strategic plan for higher education, outcome-based curriculum template, National Qualifications Framework, and matters related to research and innovation.