NU Reforms Key to Higher Education Quality, Says National University VC as Professor Dr A S M Amanullah, Vice-Chancellor of National University (NU), emphasised the importance of structural reforms at the institution to enhance the quality of higher education and contribute to a more equitable society. He highlighted that transforming NU into a centre of excellence is pivotal to broader educational development goals. The remarks were made on December 21, 2025, outlining the need for comprehensive improvements in academic standards, governance practices, and institutional performance to address longstanding challenges in the higher education landscape.
NU Reforms and Vision for Higher Education Quality
Professor Amanullah stated that reforms at National University are “key to higher education quality” and essential for building a non-discriminatory, just and balanced society, as well as a developed and prosperous nation. These reforms are aimed at strengthening academic curricula, improving research activities, and enhancing institutional governance mechanisms across NU’s extensive network of affiliated colleges. The National University, one of the largest public universities in South Asia by enrollment, oversees thousands of affiliated colleges and a diverse student population. Improving quality and consistency across this broad academic ecosystem remains a central challenge for education policymakers and university leadership alike.
Challenges and Focus Areas in Higher Education
Higher education systems globally face pressures to adapt curricula, expand access, and meet labour market needs with relevant skill-based training. Institutional reforms often focus on updating syllabi, strengthening faculty development, and enhancing research capability throughout academic networks. Initiatives such as curriculum modernisation and expanded vocational or technical programmes are part of broader reform agendas in many countries. For the National University in particular, reform efforts are seen as a response to systemic gaps, including outdated teaching methods and limited adoption of contemporary subjects such as digital technologies and interdisciplinary studies. Quality assurance mechanisms and improved academic support structures continue to be priorities for leaders looking to boost graduate employability and holistic learning outcomes.
Broader Implications for Higher Education Ecosystems
Experts highlight that institutional reforms at large universities like NU not only affect internal academic quality but also have broader implications for national human resource development. Strengthening higher education quality can support skills development, industry-academia collaboration, and economic competitiveness. While NU’s leadership advocates for strategic reform, broader policy initiatives are also underway in various regions to unify or strengthen regulatory frameworks in higher education efforts that aim to ensure consistent standards, improved accreditation processes, and better outcomes for students and educators alike. As reforms continue, educational stakeholders will be watching how NU and similar institutions implement change to elevate academic quality, support graduate success, and contribute to national development.
