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CPD-SACEPS Dialogue on A Proposal of a South Asian University

6 February 2007

 

 

Educationists at a discussion on 6 February 2006 underscored the need to establish a South Asian University, which will be a centre of excellence and expertise and help address regional issues.

Professor Gowher Rizvi of Harvard University presented the keynote paper at the discussion jointly organised by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) and the South Asia Centre for Policy Studies (SACEPS) at CIRDAP auditorium in the city. He pointed out that one of the real challenges for the new university would be to devise a curriculum that will be innovative, imaginative and reflect the changed circumstances of the 21st century.

Speaking as the Chief Guest, Foreign Affairs Adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury said Bangladesh is ready to contribute what is necessary to establish such a university. The issue would be raised in the upcoming SAARC summit, he said. Underscoring the need to explore intellectual capabilities of the people in the region, he said the people of South Asia have certain 'values' which should be promoted through this type of institutions.

Former vice-chancellor of Dhaka University Prof A K Azad Chowdhury proposed establishing the institution somewhere near Dhaka. He also suggested that such a university should give emphasis on research activities.

Another former VC Prof Emajuddin Ahmed said such an institution should not be a conventional one. Its students should study the tradition, culture, religions and heritage of the entire south Asia region, he added.

Prof Khan Sarwar Murshid said the university should focus on study on science for peace. The issues of conflicts in the region should also be studied, he said, adding that other universities in the region should be affiliated with this institution.

Prof Shamsher Ali underscored the need to give top priority to science studies. Besides, subjects of common interests in the region such as marine, mountain, underground water and environment should also get priority. He said an international committee of experts should select the best students for enrolment in the university. At the same time, poor meritorious students should also be given opportunity to study in the institution, he added.