Prof. Dr. Abdur Rab
Vice Chancellor, International University of Business Agriculture and Technology (IUBAT)

The Daily Star (TDS): What makes your university the ideal choice for prospective students?

Abdur Rab (AB): As the first non-government university in Bangladesh, founded in 1991, the International University of Business Agriculture and Technology (IUBAT) has established a legacy of excellence in higher education. With a vibrant community of 8,000 students and an ambitious annual target to enroll 2,000 new students, IUBAT is a hub of knowledge, research, innovation, and opportunity.

TDS: Please share details about the programs and courses tailored to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today's dynamic job market. Include how these courses align with industry demands and future trends.

AB: IUBAT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs tailored to meet the evolving demands of the national and global job market. From Business Administration and Agriculture to Computer Science, Public Health, Engineering, Nursing, Tourism and Hospitality Management, English, and Economics, every program with a forward-thinking curriculum is designed to build professional skills and an appropriate mindset for career advancement.

For instance, the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSAg) program emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices and modern technology to prepare students for challenges in food security and environmental conservation. Similarly, the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) program focuses on cutting-edge areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science.

Additionally, partnerships with local and international industries enable students to gain hands-on experience through internships, workshops, and collaborative projects. These opportunities bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, making IUBAT graduates highly competitive in the job market.

TDS: Could you tell us about the dynamics of your teaching staff?

AB: At the heart of IUBAT's success is its dedicated and dynamic teaching staff. The university boasts a team of highly qualified faculty members who bring a blend of academic excellence and industry experience to the classroom. Faculty members are encouraged to engage in continuous professional development through advanced degrees, training, and participation in international conferences. This commitment ensures that teaching methods remain innovative and effective, incorporating the latest advancements in pedagogy.

IUBAT's emphasis on research and development further elevates the quality of education. Faculty-led research projects often involve students, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

TDS: Can you tell us about the university's research facilities?

AB: IUBAT is committed to fostering a culture of inquiry and creativity. Its research facilities and innovation labs play a pivotal role in this mission. The Miyan Research Institute finances research funds for teachers and students and leads the research endeavor of the university. In 2024, IUBAT achieved 4th position in SCImago among private universities in Bangladesh for publishing an impressive number of papers in SCOPUS-indexed journals, underscoring its commitment to research excellence. The university is home to state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with modern tools and technologies that support interdisciplinary research.

For instance, the Miyan Research Institute conducts impactful research, while the university's engineering labs provide students with hands-on opportunities to develop and test prototypes, fostering innovation in areas such as renewable energy and automation. The IUBAT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre inspires students to engage in innovation activities, trains them in entrepreneurship skills, provides financial assistance in developing new product prototypes, assists in patenting innovative products, and encourages them to undertake business ventures.

TDS: How does the university nurture the inner potential of its students through extracurricular activities such as clubs, job fairs, and competitions?

DAB: Recognizing that education extends beyond the classroom, IUBAT actively nurtures the inner potential of its students through a variety of extracurricular activities. The university hosts over 20 student societies (clubs), ranging from cultural and sports clubs to technology and entrepreneurship. There are also the Debating Club, BNCC, Rotaract Club, local chapters of professional societies, and the Volunteer Forum.

Annual job fairs, organized in collaboration with industry partners, offer students direct access to employment opportunities and networking events. Competitions, such as hackathons and business plan contests, encourage innovation and critical thinking while allowing students to showcase their talents on national and international stages.

TDS: Could you provide an overview of tuition fees along with details of scholarships and waivers offered by the university?

DAB: IUBAT is committed to providing accessible quality education for all, with a focus on merit-based and need-based financial aid. Tuition fees remain competitive while reflecting the institution's high standards. The university offers various scholarships and waivers to support students from diverse backgrounds. Special initiatives and awareness campaigns reach out to students from rural and underserved areas, ensuring they are informed about financial aid opportunities to pursue their academic goals.