Mirza Galib urges 5% of GDP allocation for education

Dhaka, Dec 18 (V7N)—Howard University Associate Professor Mirza Galib emphasized the need to increase budget allocation for education, suggesting a minimum of 5% of GDP should be designated for the sector.

"Without enhancing funding for education, we will fall economically behind developed nations," he said.

He made these remarks as the keynote speaker at a seminar titled: "Science, Technology and Innovation: Paving Bangladesh’s Future in a Competitive World," organized by the Interdisciplinary Research and Development Consortium (IRDC) on Wednesday at the central auditorium of Jagannath University.

Mirza Galib highlighted that the current world is highly challenging, with rapidly evolving technology and intense global competition.

"Countries advancing in science and technology are also achieving significant economic growth. We must develop skilled researchers through training while simultaneously advancing technology," he said.

He added: "We must remember that even under a tree, a good teacher can impart quality education to a bright student. However, the process of recruiting university teachers in our country often makes it difficult to find the best candidates. Bringing major reforms in this area can lead to a revolutionary change in education."

During his address, Mirza Galib provided an in-depth analysis of how modern technology, scientific advancements and innovative capabilities can shape Bangladesh’s future and strengthen its position in global competition.

He particularly highlighted the role of universities in fostering innovation among young researchers and improving their technical expertise.

In the panel discussion, Dr Md Rais Uddin, Chairman of the Department of Islamic Studies, said: "To sustain Bangladesh in a competitive world, we must advance in science and innovative technology. We must rise above political differences and value merit. For decades, corruption has hindered scientific and technological progress. We must uphold moral integrity, a principle Islam teaches us."

Dr A J Saleh Ahmmad, Professor of the Department of Chemistry said: "Many technologies have been developed over the years, but we had no contribution to them. It is not enough to merely ride the wave of development; we would take greater pride if such advancements were achieved using our own technology."