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The University Grants Commission (UGC) has taken an initiative to establish third-language learning centres at 30 public and private universities across Bangladesh by January 2027 to strengthen students’ multilingual skills and improve their competitiveness in the global job market.
UGC Chairman Professor Mamun Ahmed announced the plan at a meeting on Wednesday.
The proposed programme will cover eight foreign languages — Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, German, Spanish and Italian. In the initial phase, however, priority will be given to Arabic, Japanese, Korean, Chinese and Italian.
The languages offered at individual universities will be determined on the basis of regional demand, institutional capacity and available infrastructure. The UGC also aims to ensure that all divisions of the country are brought under the programme.
Currently, 10 universities in Bangladesh operate language centres. Dhaka University offers the largest number of language programmes, teaching 13 languages.
The UGC also plans to develop qualified language teachers and, where necessary, seek support from foreign language experts. Data from the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) will be analysed to identify which foreign languages are in highest demand in different regions.
Professor Mamun said the UGC would support the centres by developing a staffing structure, establishing modern language laboratories and expanding the use of technology in language education.
He said measures would also be taken to ensure that the centres do not turn into commercial ventures and that students receive quality language education at an affordable cost.
The initiative is expected to help Bangladeshi students acquire additional language skills, improve their access to overseas education and employment opportunities, and enhance their ability to compete in an increasingly globalised job market.
