51st Session Islamic University of Technology (IUT) convened in Bangladesh

The 51st Session of the Governing Board of the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) convened, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Saleh Bin Brahim Al Qasoumi, Chairman of the Governing Board of IUT and Professor of Pharmacognosy at King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

At the outset of the meeting, Dr. Ahmad Kawesa Sengendo, the Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Affairs and Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Science and Technology expressed sincere appreciation on behalf of H.E Mr. Hissein Brahim Taha, OIC Secretary-General and IUT Chancellor, to the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh for its continuous support and commitment to the development and progress of the IUT. Dr. Sengendo highlighted the achievements of the IUT in providing opportunities for young people to secure a better future and build the necessary skills for their professional careers.

Dr. Sengendo presented practical recommendations and proposals aimed at improving the University’s ranking and enhancing its regional and international recognition. He underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships with international academic institutions and developing greater collaboration among OIC Member States. He also highlighted the necessity of promoting student mobility and exchange programs, equipping them with essential skills and language proficiency to effectively tackle global challenges and make positive contributions to their societies and communities.

Representatives from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Pakistan, Chad, Bangladesh, and the OIC emphasized the critical need for continuous improvements in infrastructure, faculty development, and research initiatives to elevate the University’s global standing and international rankings.

The Governing Board acknowledged and appreciated the efforts made by the IUT in enhancing its English language courses for French-speaking students. Concerns were expressed regarding the financial challenges facing the IUT, due to outstanding contributions from some OIC Member States and the accumulation of arrears. The need for the University to diversify its sources of revenue including the establishment of endowments was emphasized.