The Dhaka University authorities on Wednesday announced a budget amounting to Tk945.15 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25, with the allocation for research increasing slightly – by Tk5 crore compared to the last fiscal year.
DU had initially requested Tk1,131.17 crore from the University Grants Commission (UGC). However, the UGC approved Tk804.41 crore, Tk326.76 crore less than what the university had requested.
The revised research allocation totals Tk20.05 crore, constituting 2.12% of the overall budget, up from Tk15.05 crore or 1.55% last year.
"Of this amount, Tk13.5 crores is designated for the research of teachers and TK6.5 crores for the PhD."
A significant portion of the budget, 67% or Tk633.32 crore, is earmarked for salaries, pensions, and allowances. Specifically, 31.65% or Tk299.19 crore is allocated for officials' salaries and 23.12% or Tk218.43 crore for allowances.
Despite being a leading institution in Bangladesh, DU's international QS University Ranking at 554th has raised concerns. Research output is a key factor in these rankings.
Vice Chancellor Prof ASM Maksud Kamal said DU’s financial independence has decreased, making it rely heavily on government funding. This reliance hindered independent research efforts, he added.
"In efforts to bolster research, DU has established the Dhaka University Research Coordination and Monitoring Cell and launched the Centre for Testing Consultancies and Research Coordination (CTCRC)," noted the VC, emphasizing these initiatives aimed to enhance collaboration with industries and ensure transparency in research and consultancy.