Prof. Dr. Md. Abdul Mannan Chowdhury
Vice Chancellor, Presidency University

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

Md. Abdul Mannan Chowdhury (MAMC): At Presidency University, our goal begins with education and extends toward empowering our students through vision and values.

Situated in the heart of Dhaka city, we go beyond textbooks and academic excellence, ensuring the personal and professional growth of every individual. The fast-evolving world demands individuals with sound knowledge in critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical ability. This is assured by our esteemed faculty members and strong administration. Presidency University witnesses the transformative power of education—nurturing young minds and motivating them towards innovation.

Moreover, our vibrant campus life cultivates a sense of belonging and connection. Students from diverse backgrounds come together to exchange ideas, promoting cross-cultural understanding and mutual respect. This diversity makes Presidency University the ideal choice for students who are constantly striving to become change-makers around the world.

TDS: Please share details about the programmes and courses tailored to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today's dynamic job market.

MAMC: Presidency University offers a wide range of 13 programmes under seven departments, keeping the evolving needs of the job market in mind. The course curricula are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for their professional success.

Our emphasis on industry-based learning sets us among the leading universities in Bangladesh. Their journey does not end after completing their education; later, they get opportunities to collaborate with industry leaders through internships, live projects, and case studies—bridging the gap between the theoretical and practical worlds. We are constantly updating our programmes so that students do not miss out on any opportunity and remain competitive in any field they choose.

Going beyond the conventional boundaries of academics, we ensure the intellectual, emotional, and social growth of our students. Our facilities include well-equipped laboratories, an established library, and interactive learning spaces, all specially designed to inspire creativity and collaboration among students.

TDS: Could you tell us about the dynamics of your teaching staff and how they enhance the quality of education at your university?

MAMC: Our faculty members are leaders in their respective fields, bringing a wealth of expertise and passion for teaching. They ensure that our students receive a world-class education and are well-prepared to compete in the global job market.

TDS: Can you tell us about the university's research facilities and innovation labs and their role in fostering innovation, enhancing education, and contributing to societal progress?

MAMC: The Presidency University Research Centre (PURC) is the backbone of innovation and excellence at the university. Here, faculty members and students collaborate on groundbreaking research that addresses critical challenges and provides sustainable solutions across various sectors.

I take immense pride in sharing that every year, our faculty members gain international recognition for their outstanding contributions through publications in reputed journals. This not only advances societal progress but also inspires students to accept real-world challenges, enhancing their creativity and confidence.

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

MAMC: We firmly believe that education should not be confined to the classroom. Recognising the importance of extracurricular activities in shaping well-rounded individuals is as important as academic growth. Our campus is a hub of clubs where students get the opportunity to explore their passions, develop new skills, engage in social activities, and form everlasting connections.

Additionally, to ensure a smooth transition into professional life, we arrange annual job fairs, career workshops, and competitions that bring students face-to-face with industry leaders and potential employers.

Our goal is to ensure that every student leaves Presidency University not only with a degree but also with the confidence and capabilities to excel in life.

TDS: Could you provide an overview of tuition fees, along with details of scholarships and waivers offered by the university and other initiatives aimed at supporting students in achieving their academic goals?

MAMC: Accessibility and inclusivity are the cornerstones of our mission at Presidency University. Financial barriers should never stand in the way of a student's life and success—I believe this from the core of my heart.

To mitigate this, we offer a range of scholarships from 10% to 100% and financial aid programmes, including merit-based scholarships and waivers for female and indigenous students, as well as special initiatives for students from underprivileged areas, depending on their previous academic results.

Our tuition fees are structured competitively to ensure affordability without compromising quality. In addition, those who struggle to access quality education are supported through our partnerships with non-governmental organisations, conglomerates, and other outreach programmes.