BGMEA President Faruque Hassan has urged the University Grants Commission (UGC) to create more opportunities for Bangladeshi students to pursue higher studies in fashion and textile related subjects.

“We have talented students and if we can provide them with market-oriented skills and knowledgeable, we will able to turn them into human resources who will be able to play a vital role in propelling the next phase of development of Bangladesh,” he said.

The readymade garment industry, which is a huge source of employment sector in Bangladesh, still depends on foreign professionals, especially at mid and upper-level management due to lack of qualified local graduates, he further said.

The UGC could come forward to introduce fashion and textile related courses in more educational institutions including universities and formulate curriculum in alignment with the market demand, he remarked.

“If we can prepare qualified graduates with practical knowledge and skills relevant to the industry, the industry will get local professionals, thus reducing dependency on foreign experts.”

Faruque Hassan made the observations while exchanging views with UGC Chairman Professor Dr. Kazi Shahidullah at UGC office in Dhaka on March 9. 

Former President of BGMEA Engr. Kutubuddin Ahmed and current Director of BGMEA Asif Ashraf were also present on the occasion. 

In the meeting the BGMEA President said, “Bangladesh is going through a golden era in terms of demographic dividend and we have to utilize our young and vibrant population to accelerate development of Bangladesh.”

He expressed thanks to UGC for granting permission to Chattogram BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (CBUFT) to carry out academic activities.

The university has created higher education opportunities for students especially in textile engineering, clothing and fashion technologies and designs.