Professor Dr. Moha: Yamin Hossain
University of Rajshahi
The lack of research education and a mentoring system in Bangladeshi universities has emerged as a major challenge. Most students and fellows show little interest in research because they are unaware of its future prospects and there are no effective mechanisms in universities to train or motivate them for research. As a result, they tend to focus on preparing for jobs instead of research, especially for government jobs like the BCS exam. Even their enthusiasm for academic learning wanes, as many believe there is little direct connection between academic studies and job preparation.
On the other hand, some students focus on pursuing higher education abroad and prepare for scholarships. Even though they score well in the IELTS exam, their lack of research experience prevents them from advancing in research. Without research experience, their chances of getting a scholarship decrease, as universities in developed countries emphasize research and scholarships there are awarded primarily on the basis of research potential.
As a result, many opt to go abroad for higher education through various agencies by paying a hefty sum, due to the lack of scholarships. However, due to their lack of research experience, they often struggle to keep up with coursework in MS or PhD programs in those countries or fail to prove themselves qualified as Teaching Assistants (TA) or Research Assistants (RA). Consequently, many lose their scholarships or fail to earn their degrees and are forced to return home.
To solve this problem, research education must be prioritized. Every university needs an effective mentoring system to encourage students to engage in research. Mentors can attract students to research and teach them the necessary skills. Without research experience, it is not possible to produce quality publications, and without publication, it is difficult to attain international standards in research.
If Bangladeshi universities actively encourage research and involve students in project work, students’ interest in research will increase. This will not only enhance their chances of obtaining scholarships but also allow them to gain internationally recognized research experience. Through this, they will become qualified to work as TAs or RAs in universities in developed countries and will be able to successfully complete their higher education.
Overall, improving the quality of research in universities and ensuring active participation of fellows in research activities is absolutely essential.
I have already mentioned that students’ lack of interest in research and the absence of a mentoring system among teachers in Bangladeshi universities is a major issue. Solving this problem requires a coordinated effort from fellows, teachers, university administration, and state agencies. Effective measures at every level will make it possible to improve the quality of research education.
Below, the actions required by each party to solve this problem are outlined in detail:
1. What Fellows Should Do:
Students interested in research must first change their mindset. Fellows need to realize that focusing on research and knowledge acquisition, instead of just job preparation, can secure a brighter future. Their responsibilities include:
⊕ Realizing the importance of research:
Through research, fellows can solve problems and foster innovative thinking. Not only jobs—gaining research experience also opens up many career opportunities.
⊕ Participating in scholarships and research projects:
Fellows should get involved in various research projects or programs at the university. Especially, they must work to qualify for internationally recognized scholarships in research.
⊕ Attending research training and conferences:
To learn about research principles, methods, and strategies, students should participate in various workshops and seminars. By presenting papers at international conferences, they can understand standards in global research.
2. What Teachers Should Do:
Teachers are responsible for encouraging students’ interest in research and being there as their mentors. Teachers should:
⊕ Mentoring and guidance:
Teachers must establish regular research-oriented mentoring systems. Every student should be involved in a specific research project, with regular guidance and supervision of their work.
⊕ Organizing research projects:
Aside from their own research, teachers can launch projects to involve students in research activities. Such projects will give students practical knowledge about research methods.
⊕ Helping with research publication:
Teachers should assist students in writing and publishing research papers. Students must be given opportunities to publish in international journals to gain early experience in research.
3. What the University Administration Should Do:
The university administration is responsible for creating research opportunities and providing the necessary resources and policies. Their responsibilities include:
⊕ Establishing research centers and labs:
The administration must set up modern research labs and centers in every university, which will provide students with the facilities they need for research.
⊕ Providing funding for research:
Adequate funding must be made available for research projects. The administration should work to secure funds from foreign organizations and industrial enterprises.
⊕ Training programs for teachers:
Workshops and international research exchange programs must be introduced to enhance teachers’ research skills.
4. What the State Should Do:
At the national level, it is essential to prioritize research by introducing government policies and providing support. The state’s responsibilities include:
⊕ Increasing research funding:
The government must increase funding for research at the national level. Academic research and innovation programs should be included within the scope of funding.
⊕ Research awards and grants:
Arrangements should be made for awards and financial grants for talented students and teachers in research, to encourage research activities.
⊕ Formulating research policies:
The government should establish clear policies for the development of research. These policies will create a conducive environment for research activities.
⊕ Providing scholarships:
The government can offer scholarships for research at international universities. This will create opportunities for talented students in the country to engage in research at the international level.
Concluding note:
Research is the key to a country’s development. It is crucial to prioritize research in Bangladesh’s education system. To achieve this goal, fellows, teachers, university administrations, and the government must work together. Investing in research and implementing an effective mentoring system will increase students’ interest in research. As a result, Bangladesh will produce world-class researchers and ensure a brighter future for the country.
Note: Collected from Facebook:——–
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15fa7ccFbC
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