If you want to boost your chances of a great career, consider studying in the USA. Students from Bangladesh and other parts of the world can grab this opportunity and choose from thousands of graduate programs. This educational journey in the USA offers not just academic excellence but also opens doors to a successful future. Here is a detailed guideline for international students to find their desired graduate program in the USA. Ways to Search for Academic Programs and Universities in the US Before you start looking at universities in the US, define your criteria first, such as location, programs, and budget. This will help narrow down your choices and make your search more focused. After that, follow the following steps. Start at the US Department of Education College Navigator Begin your journey by visiting the US Department of Education College Navigator website. This comprehensive platform allows you to search for associate’s, bachelor’s, and advanced degrees (master's and doctoral), making it an excellent starting point for exploring a wide range of programs. You can get a list of universities by applying different search filters. Read more: Higher Study in Germany: Scholarship Opportunities for Bangladeshi and Other International Students The American Center Talking to someone who knows about studying in the US can be really helpful. In that case, you can check EducationUSA. EducationUSA is a network by the US Department of State, and they have three advising centers in Dhaka and Chattogram. You can visit one of these centers near you to get information. You may attend virtual webinars online to learn more about American universities. EducationUSA offers precise and up-to-date information on all accredited US higher education institutions. Geared toward prospective students, the center provides comprehensive services for those aspiring to pursue higher education in the United States. Further, EducationUSA offers step-by-step programs guiding students through the application process. Weekly seminars are conducted for each application step, and individual counseling with advisers is available to further support students in their educational journey. Read more: Study in Norway: Scholarship Opportunities for International Students including Bangladesh

The persistent anti-government political programmes enforced by BNP and like-minded political parties have cast a shadow over academic activities in Dhaka and parts of Bangladesh. Many schools and colleges in the capital have remained open despite the blockades but students’ attendance has dropped remarkably. Many guardians are reluctant to send their children to schools and colleges, especially those who live far from the educational institutions. Additionally, educational institutions have been forced to postpone scheduled exams, compounding the stress and uncertainty over students' studies. Read: BNP’s like-minded parties announce fresh 48-hour blockade from Wednesday The latest bout of the political turmoil saw a nationwide hartal on October 29. After the end of a three-day blockade on October 31, a two-day blockade is currently underway on November 5 and 6. This ongoing situation has left students and parents in a state of panic, with fears of a more challenging political situation throughout November and December. The implications of this political unrest are most profound in divisional cities and district headquarters, including the capital. Talking to the UNB reporter, many parents said they are particularly concerned about the safety of their children during their commute to and from school in these challenging times. Almost all educational institutions in the capital, including Motijheel Ideal School and College, Banasree Ideal School and College, Viqarunnisa Noon School and College Main Branch and Bashundhara Branch, Government Laboratory High School, Motijheel Government Girls High School, Rampura Ekramunnesa Girls' School, Rajuk Uttara Model School and College, and Banani Bidyaniketan, have reported a significant decrease in attendance. Read: Bus carrying passengers set on fire in Dhaka’s Gulistan Some English medium schools have been forced to close indefinitely, while others have resorted to holding classes online. Parents are increasingly concerned about the disparities between physical and online classes and are uncertain about the upcoming half-yearly exams. Sarwar Alam, a parent of a child studying at English medium school 'Play-Pen' located in Bashundhara, said, “We've shifted to online classes. However, there are noticeable disparities between physical classroom instruction and online learning. With the upcoming half-yearly exam scheduled for November 10, I am uncertain about how this examination will be carried out.” Ruhul Amin, a parent of a student at Ideal School and College, expressed the dilemma many parents are facing. “My two children study at Ideal School’s Banasree branch. I didn't allow my children to come to school during the previous phase of the hartal and blockade. They missed a week of school. Now it is happening again. Who knows how long this will last? That's why I brought my child to school again. But there is a sense of fear within us, wondering what will happen and when,” he said. The anxiety and concerns of parents are echoed by Abdul Majid Sujan,  general secretary of the guardians’ forum at Viqarunnisa Noon School and College. “The children's annual examination is scheduled to be held this month. Meanwhile, the continuous strike and blockade are creating panic among parents. We are afraid and worried about sending the children to school, especially when it comes to traveling on the road,” Read: DMP chief announces Tk 20,000 reward for help with catching arsonists Director of the  Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education Professor Mohammad Belal Hossain, said that the annual evaluation of schools will start on November 9, with the goal of completing the examination by November 30. However, if the situation deteriorates, decisions will be made in consultation with higher authorities, he said. According to the previous schedule, the annual evaluation for class VI and VII students under the new curriculum was scheduled to begin on November 5 but has now been rescheduled to start on November 9. The impact of these disruptions extends beyond the capital, with divisional and district towns also experiencing low student turnout. In response to the evolving situation, schools have received revised schedules for examinations. Parents are left with no choice but to take risks and send their children to schools despite the uncertain circumstances.

As the world grappled with the reality of the pandemic, most of the academic activities across the world moved to online platforms. Educational institutions utilized technological tools to provide classes and even hold exams. And with that, the concept of distance learning resurged in the limelight. Many renowned universities offered distance learning even before the pandemic. With time, it is becoming a popular and convenient way of attaining a higher degree. This article looks at some of the best international universities providing distance learning opportunities.  What is Distance Learning?  The concept of distance learning is nothing new. The earliest example of distance learning dates back to the 1840s. Back then, Sir Issac Pitman taught shorthand to his students via postal mail. However, today’s concept of distance learning largely differs from that of the 1800s.  Distance learning today essentially mimics an actual classroom with teachers and students. Universities across the globe partner with platforms like Coursera, and edX to provide certification courses to aspiring students. Some universities offer these courses on their own platform. Recently, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are also made available through distance learning opportunities.  Read more: Best Countries for Bachelor's Degree in 2023 8 Best Universities in the World with Distance Learning Opportunities  This list includes universities offering certificate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It's important to note that distance learning bachelor’s programs are less common than master’s or certificate courses.  University College London  University College London or UCL was founded in 1826. It was established after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. In addition to their London campus, the university has campuses in Qatar and Australia.  UCL has 11 academic wings ranging from arts and humanities to medical sciences. It ranks 12th in US News’ list of Best Global Universities. The university offers 403 undergraduate degrees. Additionally, it offers 621 master’s degrees, and 271 online courses/degrees. The online courses are a mix of certificate as well as postgraduate degrees in all of their available academic wings.  Read more: Cheapest countries for Bangladeshi students for higher studies

Anti-Fascist Students’ Solidarity, a new student alliance, will hold an exchange meeting with teachers and parents on October 19 to build a larger student movement with their 9-point demands, including voting rights, safe campuses, and the establishment of a democratic state and education system. The exchange meeting with teachers and parents will be held in Dhaka. Graduates encouraged preparing themselves in line with global demands Saif Mahmud Jewel, spokesperson of the alliance and General Secretary of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, announced the program in a press conference at Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) on Sunday morning. He said that the 9-point demand was announced by the alliance to demand the right to vote, terror-free safe campuses, and the establishment of a democratic state and education system. Prof  Maksud Kamal made 29th VC of Dhaka University These nine points were accepted by the representatives at the student convention on October 12, he said. The speakers expressed hope that such opinion exchange meetings will be organized in Rajshahi, Chattagram, Sylhet, and other divisional cities through the exchange of views with students, teachers, and parents. Leaders and activists from the students’ bodies, including Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, Chhatra Federation, Chhatra Adhikar Parishad, Gonotantrik Chhatra Dal (LDP), Nagorik Chhatra Oikya, Jagpa Chhatra League, Chhatra Forum (Gono Forum Montu), Bhasani Chhatra Parishad, Jatiya Chhatra Samaj (Kazi Zafar), Jatiya Chhatra Samaj (BJP-Partha), Jagpa Chhatra League (Khandaker Lutfar), Chhatra Jamiat Bangladesh, Biplobi Chhatra Sanghati and Rashtra Reform Movement, were present there. Student tortured all night by 'Chhatra League activists' at Barishal University hall Earlier, on September 29,  15 student bodies formed the front through a joint declaration at Dhaka Reporters’ Unity in Segunbagicha area on Friday.

Depression among students is a critical issue that demands urgent attention. The gravity of this problem magnifies the alarming rise in dropouts from colleges, study breaks, drug addictions, even suicidal attempts among students. As parents and educators, it is essential to be proactive in addressing this crisis through understanding, support, and guidance. Let’s take a look into how to prevent depression in students. Common Reasons for Depression among Students  Depression among students can be attributed to various factors, and understanding these reasons is the first step in prevention. Here are some common causes: - High expectations and academic stress can lead to feelings of hopelessness - Loneliness and a lack of social support can make students vulnerable to depression and suicidal thoughts - Bullying, whether in person or online, can devastate a student's mental health - Drug or alcohol abuse can exacerbate depression and increase the risk of suicide - Relationship problems can be a major source of stress and anxiety for students - Conflict with their parents, siblings, or friends can make them isolated and alone - Economic constraints and worries about the future can take a toll on a student's mental health - Traumatic events during childhood, like physical or emotional abuse or loss of a parent increase the risk of depression - Mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorder can trigger depression - Having certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or being overly dependent, self-critical, or pessimistic is a reason for depression.  Read more: Protecting Your Child’s Mental Health: 10 Tips for Parents

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising numerous sectors and industries, including the realm of education. AI can potentially address significant global challenges and opportunities in education, encompassing aspects like accessibility, quality, equity, personalisation, and lifelong learning. This article explores how AI can lend support to educators, learners, and policymakers in creating more efficacious and all-encompassing learning environments. AI is causing a revolution in various industries, like medicine and finance. However, its impact on education is equally remarkable. Let's delve into some instances where AI is enhancing the educational landscape. 10 Ways AI Can Help Students Learn Personalised Learning One theory in pedagogy suggests that individuals have diverse learning styles, such as visual, aural, or kinesthetic learners. Although this theory has been debated, it is generally acknowledged that people learn differently, varying in work and study styles, learning pace, and ease with specific subjects or concepts. Given this understanding, personalising the learning experience becomes essential. However, manually tailoring lesson plans for every student is impractical due to time constraints. This is where AI-powered personalised learning comes into play. AI's strength lies in its ability to quickly analyse vast amounts of data and identify patterns, making it the perfect tool for developing personalised learning plans. AI-based learning systems can provide teachers with detailed insights into students' learning styles, abilities, and progress, enabling them to customise their teaching methods accordingly. For instance, AI can suggest more advanced work for some students and offer extra attention to others. Read more: Top 10 Humanoid AI Robots in 2023 So Far Furthermore, AI can enhance accuracy in predicting results, assisting teachers in ensuring their lesson planning meets learning targets. AI's role in planning, scheduling, and creating unique learning experiences for students can free up teachers' time, allowing them to focus on high-value tasks such as individual student support. Several universities have tested the use of chatbots for repetitive tasks typically handled by professors, providing 24/7 assistance to students. Adaptive Learning Adaptive learning employs AI to tailor resources and learning activities to suit each learner's unique needs, especially in online learning. This method involves rigorous analysis of a student's performance data, enabling the AI algorithm to adjust the course material's pace and difficulty, optimising the learning process. Read more: How to Avoid Mobile Data Leakage and Data Breach Adaptive learning not only improves the learning process but also saves time and resources by eliminating unnecessary repetition and focusing on areas where a student may struggle. The teacher can offer support where needed, while the student can learn at a comfortable pace. Many companies are embracing adaptive learning to improve content delivery. A notable example is Duolingo, a language-learning app that provides personalised exercises for learning various languages. The app uses AI to ensure lessons are paced and levelled according to each student's performance. Automated Grading Grading assignments and exams is among the most time-consuming tasks in education. AI-powered tools, utilising machine learning algorithms, can evaluate essays, multiple-choice tests, and programming assignments with remarkable accuracy and efficiency, thus saving teachers considerable time. Using computers for grading ensures consistency and reduces bias, including unconscious bias that teachers may have, while also providing personalised feedback to students. This encourages students to take ownership of their learning and improve in problem areas. Read more: AI & Future of Jobs: Will Artificial Intelligence or Robots Take Your Job? Although automated grading has significant advantages, it is crucial to address biases that may persist in AI due to the underlying data used to train the algorithms. China has been experimenting with AI auto-grading platforms, with around 1 in 4 schools using machine-learning auto-grading platforms. Intelligent Tutoring Systems Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) are computer systems powered by machine learning algorithms that offer personalised and adaptive lesson plans based on individual students' learning needs and pace. Similar to other AI tools, ITSs analyse student data to understand learning patterns, enabling them to provide customised suggestions, feedback, and exercises tailored to each student's requirements. ITS benefits both students and teachers, allowing educators to monitor students' progress and modify their teaching approach for effective lesson delivery. Students can learn at their own pace while receiving support when needed and engaging in more advanced concepts when ready. A study by the U.S. Department of Education revealed that existing ITS can enhance student literacy by improving their reading comprehension and writing skills. Implementing these systems in classrooms poses challenges, and natural language processing techniques have been suggested for scoring student responses. Read more: How Can Artificial Intelligence Improve Healthcare? Smart Content Creation Creating lesson plans presents a significant challenge for teachers, as each student has unique learning requirements. "Smart content creation" refers to the use of AI to automate and enhance the generation of educational content. AI platforms analyse student data to create personalised and engaging educational material. This customised content can then be used to create tailored environments catering to different learning outcomes. Students can select lesson plans that align with their needs. AI can generate interactive quizzes, simulations, and experiments using chatbots, augmented reality, or virtual reality, enriching the learning experience. Coursera is a prime example of successful smart content creation, using AI to curate multiple educational and professional courses and suggest appropriate courses based on students' learning performance, pace, and individual needs. Learning Analytics Analysing large amounts of student data can be a tedious task, but AI-powered automated analytics make the process easier. Teachers can use the data to track student performance and engagement, enabling timely interventions and additional support as required. Students can also leverage analytics to monitor their own progress and request help when needed. Read more: Ai and Future of Content Writing: Will Artificial Intelligence replace writers? For instance, the University of Michigan offers a dashboard called "My Learning Analytics," allowing students to visualise and track their grade distribution, assignment planning, and resources. Implementing learning analytics in education may face ethical and privacy issues, as well as challenges related to data collection and analysis. Addressing these concerns with the help of AI is essential to ensuring responsible usage. Virtual Assistants Virtual assistants powered by AI can automate administrative tasks such as lesson planning and scheduling, freeing up teachers' valuable time to focus on essential duties like lecturing and engaging with students. Virtual assistants also provide customised feedback to students, monitor their progress, and offer additional resources based on individual needs. Interacting with AI-powered virtual assistants has even shown positive correlations with students' academic performance. Read more: Top 5 AI Chatbot Platforms and Trends in 2023 Natural Language Processing Natural Language Processing (NLP) is an AI field focused on making computer systems capable of understanding and interpreting human languages. NLP has various applications, such as text generation, chatbots, and information extraction. For instance, ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, serves as a language model used by students for homework help, exam preparation, and learning in general. Teachers can also use ChatGPT to prepare lesson plans and check assignments for grammar and information. It is important to view NLP and AI as assistive technologies, not absolute sources of knowledge, as they may have limitations and potential biases. Careful consideration of the technology's impact on the education sector is essential. Predictive Modelling AI-powered predictive modelling analyses large amounts of data to predict various outcomes, such as student performance. This information is valuable to teachers, parents, institutions, governments, and students, as it can greatly enhance the learning experience and set benchmarks. Predictive modelling allows teachers to offer timely guidance based on students' predicted performance and previous test or exam results. Data-driven analysis helps improve individual student performance and provides additional support when needed, enriching the learning experience. Governments can also utilise predictive modelling for planning educational goals. Read more: Google's AI Chatbot Bard: All You Need to Know Augmented and Virtual Reality Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies have gained popularity in recent years. AR overlays computer-generated content onto real-world objects, while VR creates a simulated virtual environment. These immersive technologies hold immense potential for education. Students can interact with AR and VR learning materials to enhance their understanding of complex concepts and their overall learning experience. VR can simulate labs for conducting chemistry experiments or virtual dissections, while AR enables studying stars and galaxies up close. AR and VR technologies have promising applications in enhancing STEM courses, medical simulations, arts and humanities materials, and technical education. They are already being utilized by various institutions, like Arizona State University (ASU), to offer unique learning experiences. Conclusion Artificial Intelligence presents promising advancements for the education sector, benefiting both teachers and students. However, it cannot replace human interaction and empathy, and addressing biases and data privacy concerns remains crucial. Integrating AI responsibly is essential for leveraging its potential while understanding its limitations. The future of education could be revolutionised with AI's continued implementation, shaping the learning experiences of future generations. Read more: ChatGPT-4: All you need to know

The government has taken a plan to set up 1000 more primary schools in the char areas of the country, said State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Md Zakir Hossain on Thursday. “Already, the work to establish primary schools in 20 chars has started ,” he said while speaking at a programme on the occasion of 50th anniversary of Phulbari Degree College in the district. The state minister also urged the teachers, students, former students and guardians not to forget the roots, no matter whether they are living now. Read more: 366 govt primary schools in Kurigram run without head teacher Md Zakir Hossain inaugurated the golden jubilee ceremony of the college which was established on April 27, 1973. The college authorities have taken a two-day programme on the occasion.

President Abdul Hamid on Tuesday asked the students not to deviate from principles and ideals in life. The President said this during an exchange of views with the students of SSC and equivalent examination-2022 in the afternoon at Bangabhaban. He invited 45 best students from different parts of the country to Bangabhaban to encourage young students. Also Read: Find out the reasons why people rush to foreign countries for medical treatment : President Hamid During an exchange of views at the Cabinet Hall of Bangabhaban, President Hamid said that students should know the true history of the country's great liberation war and should respect those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Highlighting the development and progress of the country, Hamid hoped that the young students will make themselves qualified to continue this trend of development of the country.  

Rajshahi University students today blocked the Dhaka-Rajshahi highway to protest the “attack on them by locals and police” last night. Members of Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) were deployed on the highway to control the situation, UNB’s RU correspondent said. Earlier today, students demonstrated in front of the administration building of the university and locked the building to protest last night’s clash involving locals of Binodpur and the students of Rajshahi University. At least 200 students were injured during the clash. Read more: Over 200 students injured as RU students clash with locals over bus seat The protesting students shouted slogans with their six-point demand, calling for justice. Their demands are: justice for the attack on RU students by locals and police, stopping the entry of outsiders in the university and ensuring safety of the students, ensuring on-campus accommodation for all students, ensuring proper treatment of the injured students, taking necessary measures within 24 hours of the incident, and ensuring student representation in forming university policies. According to the university sources, the students staged a sit-in protest in front of the Senate Building after holding a protest march on the campus to talk with the authorities. Later, they blocked the Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Golam Shabbir Sattar, the Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Md. Sultan-Ul-Islam, and Prof. M. Humayun Kabir for two hours in front of Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Senate building. Read More: RU student stabbed on campus, 3 held VC Prof Golam Sabbir Sattar urged the students to stop the demonstration. However, the agitating students rejected his request and asked him to solve the issue. Amanullah Khan, a student of Population Science and Human Resource Development department of the university, said, “Police were largely inactive in the incident, rather they threw tear gas shells and fired rubber bullets at us. Taking advantage of their inaction, local thugs attacked us. The agitation will continue if our demands are not met.” At that time, he demanded the resignation of the university’s proctorial body and student advisor.  

Three students were hacked by some drug addicts in the capital's Darus Salam area due to creating interruption in their drug taking on Friday, leaving them critically injured. The victims are Arafat Ismail Alif, 18, a student of Agriculture Diploma Institute, Tanvir Khan Hemantu, 19, a student of Mirpur Polytechnic College and Abdur Rahman Rahi, 18, a student of Bangla College. They were taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital by locals immediately. Md. Bachchu Mia, Inspector-in-charge of Dhaka Medical College Hospital Police outpost, said that the injured are being treated at the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College. The matter has been reported to the concerned police station, he added.