Dhaka: Universities of European Union will offer Erasmus+ scholarship and fellowship for Bangladeshi students and teachers.

This was disclosed at a seminar on ‘Opportunities for Academic Co-operation between EU and Bangladeshi Higher Education Institutions’ held at the University Grants Commission (UGC) auditorium on Tuesday, reports UNB referring to a UGC press release.

Speakers said establishing and enhancing academic as well as research collaboration in the areas of science and technology and innovation amongst the universities of EU and Bangladesh should progress at the same speed.

UGC Chairman Abdul Mannan presided over the function while EU Ambassador and Head of the Delegation to Bangladesh Pierre Mayaudon was present at the programme as the guest of honour.

The EU envoy observed that knowledge-based society is essential for Bangladesh to become a middle-income country in near future.

Establishment of academic and research collaboration in the higher education institutions is highly required too to achieve the target, he added.

UGC Chairman in his speech said building and forging better understanding and closer ties between the universities of EU and Bangladesh is the prime need for enhancement and internationalisation of higher education.

He termed the proposal of Erasmus+ scholarship and Jean Monnet fellowship in the area of academic and research by EU for Bangladeshi teachers and students an excellent opportunity.

Philippe Ruffio, the Head of Sector - Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency of the European Commission, presented a paper on the occasion.

UGC members Dr Mohammad Yousuf Ali Mollah, Dr Dil Afroza Begum, VCs, Pro-VCs and registrars of several public and private universities were present at the programme.