United News of Bangladesh

Prof Dr Md Alimul Islam, a professor of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), has been appointed as new vice chancellor (VC) of Sylhet Agricultural University (SAU). A notification, signed by Mst. Rokshana Begum, deputy secretary at scholarship and engineering universities section under the Ministry of Education, was issued in this regard on Thursday. Dr Alimul, a faculty member at Microbiology and Hygiene department of the BAU, has been appointed upon approval by the President and Chancellor of the university following section 10 (1) of the SAU Act-2006. He completed graduation and post-graduation from Veterinary faculty of the BAU and did his PhD from the same university. The microbiologist also earned his post-doctorate from the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Japan. According to the university, he has 183 national and international scientific publications.

Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) has suspended Dr. Md. Harun-or-Rashid, a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics, allegedly for sexually harassing a Malaysian female student. BAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A. K. Fazlul Haque Bhuiyan confirmed the matter on Wednesday. According to university sources, Dr. Md. Harun-or-Rashid was suspended based on the report and recommendations of the investigation committee presented at an urgent syndicate meeting held on Monday afternoon. BAU students can now submit complaints online and offline as university seeks to address past misconduct The professor was served a show-cause notice and asked to respond within10 days. The syndicate also decided to investigate incidents of violence against women and sexual harassment in different times. Meanwhile, various organizations, including the Legal Aid Sub-Committee of the Bangladesh Women's Council and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, demanded appropriate punishment based on thorough investigation. Besides, the Malaysian Embassy in Dhaka sent a letter to the university administration requesting the investigation report. On September 25, a Malaysian female student accused Harun of sexual harassment. In response to the allegation, a five-member investigation committee was formed. During the investigation, general students of the university organised human chains and protest rallies, demanding a fair investigation and exemplary punishment for the accused teacher.

Students of Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur staged protests on the campus late Tuesday night over the teasing of a female student allegedly by some outsiders.     They also blocked the Dhaka-Kurigram road for some time disrupting traffic. Two outsiders harassed a female student near the main gate of Begum Rokeya University on Tuesday evening. Three students from the university’s Mass Communication and Journalism Department, Abdullah Al Mamun, Mostafa Kamal, and Bidhan Roy, protested against the harassment. Student movement to lay siege to High Court on Wed At this time, the two outsiders called 10-15 more people and beat up students Mamun and Mostafa Kamal. With the situation deteriorating more university students from various departments intervened, leading to a clash between the two groups. During the fighting three more university students were injured. In protest, the students blocked the Dhaka-Kurigram road, demanding arrest of the outsiders and justice for the harassment. Later, around 12 am, the two perpetrators were apprehended by the students and handed over to the university administration. The blockade was lifted after the vice-chancellor assured the students that appropriate punishment would be given to those responsible. Students protest market prices, demand Competition Commission resignations Shamsur Rahman Sumon, a student of the university, mentioned that  outsiders from the university neighbourhood  frequently cause disturbances on the campus, including theft and mugging. In the past, these individuals would evade punishment by using political influence, but this time the students were determined to take action, he added. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Showkat Ali said that the two apprehended outsiders are currently in the custody of the university proctor. They are being interrogated, and discussions have been held with the police and administration. Those responsible must be punished through the law, said VC.

Dinajpur education board has witnessed a slight increase in the overall pass percentage this year compared to last year. The number of GPA-5 achievers was 7, 836 more than last year. A total of 14, 265 students secured the highest point in terms of the GPA-5 this year. Like every year, girls outshone boys in the board in both pass percentage and GPA-5. The education board Chairman Prof SM Abdus Samad Azad revealed these at a press conference on Tuesday morning. Exam controller Prof Mir Sajjad Ali and others were present there. The board chairman said students could sit for seven subjects amid the adverse atmosphere this year and their results were evaluated on those. Read: 31% HSC students fail in English under Jashore Board, pass rate drops Under the board, 86,954 students out of 112, 115 from 665 educational institutions came out successfully, he said.This year’s pass percentage was 77.56 percent, an increase of 3.08 percent of last year, he said, adding that 8,110 girls got the GPA-5 while the number for the boys was only 6, 185. The pass percentage of the boys was 73.97 percent while the girls outnumbered them by 704 percent. There were 20 colleges under the board where no students passed this year.

The pass rate for this year's Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exams under the Jashore Education Board dropped, with 31% of students failing in English. The overall pass rate also fell compared to last year, causing a significant dip in results. According to the board authorities, the rise in the failure rate in English has negatively impacted the overall performance of the board. The results published by Jashore Board show that out of 1 lakh 22 thousands 511 students who appeared for the 2024 HSC exams, only 78, 764 passed, resulting in a pass rate of 64.29%. In comparison, the pass rate in 2023 was 69.88%. However, the number of students achieving GPA-5 has increased, with 9, 749 students securing the top grade. 65 institutions see zero pass rate in HSC exams On Tuesday at 11 a.m., Jashore Education Board Chairman Marjina Akter announced the results during a press conference in the board’s conference room. Exam Controller Professor Dr. Biswas Shahin Ahmed was also present at the event. Jashore Board Chairman Marjina Akter noted that the increased failure rate in English significantly affected the overall results. She attributed this to the learning gap created by the COVID-19 pandemic, which prevented students from attending regular classes for a year and a half. Additionally, 13 educational institutions under the Jashore Board achieved a 100% pass rate, while seven institutions saw all their students fail. Speaking about the results, Dr. Biswas Shahin Ahmed, the Exam Controller, also highlighted that the 31% failure rate in English had a substantial impact on the overall pass rate.

For many HSC graduates, studying abroad is a dream that promises both academic and personal growth. The opportunity to gain global exposure, access world-class education, and build a successful career drives this ambition. However, realizing this dream requires careful planning, from exams to documentation. Let’s explore this comprehensive guide outlining the essential preparation for higher education opportunities abroad for students after HSC. Standardized Exams or Aptitude Tests To pursue undergraduate studies abroad, students must often take standardized exams that evaluate academic readiness. Globally recognized tests include the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and ACT (American College Testing), which assess critical reading, writing, and mathematical skills. A competitive SAT score generally ranges from 1200 to 1400, while the ACT requires scores between 25 to 30 for top-tier universities. Certain regions, such as the UK (United Kingdom), may require specific exams like the UCAS (UCAS) Tariff or A-Levels. In addition, specific institutions may demand Subject Tests, previously part of the SAT but now integrated into university-specific admission processes. Fields like engineering or medicine might require additional exams, such as the BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) or UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) for medical studies in the UK. Preparing for these exams well in advance, alongside identifying university-specific testing requirements, is essential for securing admission into competitive programs. Read more: Higher Studies in Italy: Application Process, Costs, Student Visa, Scholarships, and Benefits Language Proficiency Exams For non-native English-speaking students, demonstrating proficiency in English is mandatory at almost all international universities. Accepted tests encompass the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), PTE (Pearson Test of English), and Duolingo. Universities in countries such as the United States, the UK, Canada, and Australia typically require an IELTS score between 6.0 and 7.5, or a TOEFL score ranging from 80 to 100. Institutions in some European countries may accept English language proficiency based on high school English results but still recommend formal test scores for admission. For studies in non-English speaking countries, students may also need to demonstrate proficiency in the local language. For example, universities in Germany often require students to pass the TestDaF or DSH for German proficiency. In France, the DALF (Diploma in Advanced French Language) exams assess French language skills. Read more: How to Register for IELTS Exam in Bangladesh Documents Preparation Applying to undergraduate programs abroad requires meticulous documentation. The Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a key element, outlining the applicant’s academic goals, long-term career vision, and reasons for selecting a particular university or program. This document must be well-structured and tailored to each application, highlighting unique attributes and qualifications that align with the program's focus. Letters of Recommendation (LORs), typically provided by high school teachers or mentors, play a crucial role in validating the student’s academic performance and character. Most universities require two to three LORs, each providing an in-depth assessment of the student’s abilities and potential for success in higher education. Additionally, a carefully curated resume/CV summarizing academic achievements, leadership roles, and community service can further strengthen an application. Some universities may request a personal essay or motivation letter, offering students another opportunity to explain their passion for their chosen field of study. Read more: Higher Studies in England: Application, Study Cost, Scholarship, and Other Scopes Collecting Academic Documents Before applying to universities abroad, it is crucial to gather and organize all required academic documents. Essential materials include HSC certificates, marksheets, and transcripts. These documents must be certified as true copies by a recognized authority, such as the Board of Intermediate Education or a school principal. These documents also need to be prepared with official translations if they are not in English. The translation should be processed through certified translation services, whether by the Ministry of Education or a notary public. In addition to academic records, extracurricular certificates demonstrating involvement in sports, community service, or arts should be compiled and verified for authenticity, if necessary. Keeping both digital and physical copies of all essential documents in an organized manner will facilitate a smoother application process. Read more: Studying for Bachelor’s in Romania: Application Process, Costs, Scholarships, and Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students Essential Life Skills Developing some fundamental life skills is vital for students preparing to live independently abroad. Basic cooking skills are necessary, as many students will need to prepare their own meals. Learning to cook a few staple dishes can ease the transition to self-sufficiency. Driving is another useful skill, especially in countries where public transportation may not be readily available. Obtaining a driving license and becoming familiar with basic road safety and regulations can prove beneficial. However, students should obtain an international driving permit. Beyond these, practical skills such as swimming and first aid are valuable for personal safety and health. Being able to respond to emergencies or handle minor injuries can be vital when living away from home. Read more: Essential Skills to Learn Before Going to Study Abroad Searching for Undergraduate Scholarships Financing education abroad is often a concern, but there are numerous scholarships available for international students. Dedicated scholarship portals provide a wealth of opportunities based on a student’s destination, field of study, and academic merit. Some of the most useful platforms are as follows: https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/  https://www.idp.com/  https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/daad-scholarships/  https://www.fastweb.com/  https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/scholarship-search  https://www.scholars4dev.com/ In Conclusion Preparing for higher studies abroad after HSC requires thorough planning, from excelling in entrance and language proficiency exams to organizing essential documents like transcripts and recommendations. Developing practical life skills, such as cooking and driving, ensures a smooth transition to independent living. Additionally, exploring various scholarship opportunities can ease the financial burden. Following these steps will help students maximize their chances of success in pursuing undergraduate studies at international institutions. Read more: Studying for Bachelor’s Degree in Hungary: Cost, Scholarships, Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students

No student from 65 institutions  passed the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination and its equivalent examinations this year. This marks a significant increase from last year when 42 institutions witnessed zero pass rate. The results of the HSC and equivalent exams were published on Tuesday  with a pass rate of 77.78%. Read more: HSC exams: Girls again outshine boys in pass rates, GPA-5 achievement

The Sylhet Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board delivered an unexpected boost in this year's Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination results, achieving the highest pass rate among the nine general education boards in Bangladesh. The board reported a remarkable pass rate of 85.39%, up significantly from last year's 73.7%—a nearly 12% increase. Girls have outshone boys across the board in this year's HSC results. Of the 49,354 female candidates, 86.04% passed, with 3,829 achieving the coveted GPA-5. In comparison, 33,811 boys appeared for the exams, with a pass rate of 83.85%. Among them, 2,869 secured GPA-5, a noticeable gap in top scorers between genders. HSC exams: Girls again outshine in pass rates, GPA-5 achievement In terms of absolute numbers, Sylhet saw a record 6,698 students earn GPA-5 this year, a dramatic rise from just 1,699 in 2022. Record-Breaking Performance for Sylhet Board Sylhet's overall performance in the HSC exams highlights significant improvement. The board saw 83,156 candidates, with 71,012 passing the exam—a notable achievement. The pass rate of 85.39% represents a 13.77% increase over the previous year’s 71.62%. This places Sylhet ahead of the other general education boards, a substantial leap from previous years. According to Professor Tapan Kumar Sarker, president of the Inter-Education Board Coordination Committee, the pass rate for the Madrasa Board's Alim examination stood at an impressive 93.40%, while the Technical Board recorded an 88.09% pass rate. HSC 2024 results: Barishal Education Board pass rate rises to 81.85% The HSC and equivalent examinations, which commenced on June 30, included a total of 1,450,790 candidates from across Bangladesh. However, the exams faced delays due to various issues, resulting in some tests being canceled and grades being awarded based on Secondary School Certificate (SSC) results.

Girls have once again outperformed boys in the HSC and equivalent examinations securing more GPA-5 scores and higher pass rate.This year, the average pass rate in 11 education boards stood at 77.78%. Female students achieved a commendable pass rate of 79.95%, compared to 75.61% of male students. HSC results 2024: Over 77% pass rate, GPA-5 achievers surge to 1.45 lakhIn addition to their superior pass rates, girls also excelled in obtaining GPA-5. Out of a total of 145,911 students who achieved this highest grade, 80,933 were female, while 64,978 were male, demonstrating thee dedication and hard work of female students in their academic pursuits.However, the overall average pass rate for this year has seen a slight decrease compared to last year’s 78.64%. Despite this dip, the impressive performance of girls in both pass rates and GPA-5 awards continues to set a positive trend in the education sector.

The pass rate for the 2024 Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination under the Barishal Education Board has climbed to 81.85%, marking a slight improvement from last year’s 80.65%, according to the latest results published on Tuesday. A total of 4,167 students secured the coveted GPA-5 this year, a rise from 3,993 in 2023, reflecting a steady improvement in overall academic performance. Arun Kumar Gain, Controller of Examinations for the Barishal Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board, confirmed the figures. HSC results 2024: Over 77% pass rate, GPA-5 achievers surge to 1.45 lakh Out of 67,114 registered candidates, 66,087 appeared for the exams, with 53,089 successfully passing. However, 33 students were expelled during the examination process. Additionally, 288 colleges from the six districts within the Barishal division participated, with 21 colleges achieving a 100% pass rate.