Financial irregularities and procedural violations have prompted University Grants Commission (UGC) officials to take stern measures against 16 private universities across Bangladesh.
Rising student numbers have coincided with increased income and corruption within these institutions, according to watchdog reports. Financial mismanagement, lack of transparency and improper accounting practices feature prominently among concerns raised by regulators.
Trustees allegedly siphon off substantial sums through various schemes that frequently breach legal standards, whilst other violations include failure to relocate to permanent campuses and exceeding approved student intake limits.
Professor Dr Mohammad Anwar Hossain, UGC member for private universities said, "We submitted a report to Education Ministry highlighting irregularities at 16 private universities. Based on that report, ministry has instructed UGC to take necessary steps. Matter will be discussed in our upcoming monthly coordination meeting, and final decision will be made."
UGC sources confirm they are investigating institutions for not shifting academic activities to permanent premises, admitting excessive student numbers, appointing business school deans to arts faculties, and assigning single individuals as both dean and department chair simultaneously.
A UGC official anonymously explained, "Under Private University Act 2010, we will take measures against universities with proven allegations. We initially wanted Education Ministry to intervene, but they have delegated responsibility to us. Full commission, led by UGC chairman, will decide on actions against accused institutions."
When questioned about potential penalties, official noted, "Nature of complaints varies from university to university, so actions will differ. However, those that haven't moved to permanent campuses may receive final deadline. Failure to comply within set time frame will trigger punitive measures."
Ms Rokhsana Begum, Joint Secretary of Secondary and Higher Education Division (Universities-1) confirmed, "UGC submitted report detailing irregularities of 16 private universities. Based on that report, we instructed them to take appropriate actions."
