An official delegation from the European Union (EU) visited Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU) today, responding to an invitation extended by the university’s Institute of Research and Training (IRT). The delegation was led by Sebastian Rieger Brown, First Secretary (Political) at the EU Delegation to Bangladesh.
The purpose of the visit was to explore potential academic partnerships and deepen educational cooperation between the EU and HSTU. The EU delegation expressed keen interest in the university’s ongoing educational initiatives, research programs, and student development activities.
During a high-level meeting held in the university’s VIP conference hall, Mr. Brown engaged in discussions with HSTU Registrar Professor Dr. Md. Jahangir Kabir, along with senior faculty members and administrative leaders. The meeting focused on the EU’s current educational and developmental engagements in Bangladesh and the prospects of connecting HSTU with European academic institutions.
Mr. Brown delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting Europe’s higher education systems, academic mobility, and funding opportunities. He gave special emphasis to the Erasmus Mundus program—one of the EU’s flagship scholarship schemes—detailing how it supports international students in pursuing joint degrees across multiple European universities.
“Bangladesh has consistently ranked third in the world in terms of the number of Erasmus Mundus applications,” he remarked. “Last year, 156 Bangladeshi students were awarded scholarships under this prestigious program, which reflects the country’s growing academic engagement with Europe.”
The EU delegation also expressed a strong interest in co-organizing a major educational event at HSTU, aimed at introducing international academic standards and scholarship opportunities to students. Tentatively scheduled for October, the event will serve as a platform for students to interact with representatives from European universities and scholarship programs.
Following the presentation, Mr. Brown participated in an interactive question-and-answer session, addressing a wide range of questions posed by students and faculty regarding higher studies in Europe, application processes, academic life abroad, and career prospects after graduation.
The event was attended by prominent members of the university leadership, including Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Enamullah, Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Shafiqul Islam, Treasurer Professor Dr. Md. Jahangir Kabir, as well as deans, directors, and faculty heads from various departments.
Professor Dr. Md. Alamgir Hossain, Director of the Institute of Research and Training (IRT), highlighted the significance of the visit, stating, “We had productive discussions on expanding academic and research collaboration with European institutions. This initiative could pave the way for long-term partnerships that will greatly benefit our students and faculty members.”
He added, “We have reached a mutual understanding to jointly host an international-standard education event later this year. It will be an excellent opportunity for our students to gain exposure to global academic opportunities and interact directly with representatives from European universities.”
The visit concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism about future collaboration and reaffirming their commitment to fostering international academic exchange and cooperation.
