Building Workforce Capability through University-Industry Partnerships (UIP) in Bangladesh: A Policy-Based Analysis

Abstract

The labor market in Bangladesh is changing rapidly, but the skills of many students graduating from universities are still not aligned with the needs of the industry. The aim of this study is to analyze in a policy-based manner how to create skilled human resources through University-Industry Partnership (UIP). The study shows that most of the higher education institutions have not yet established effective linkages with the industry. As a result, students are proficient in theoretical knowledge but lag behind in practical application, technical knowledge, and problem-solving abilities. As a result, their competitiveness in the labor market is decreasing. This study proposes a practical and policy-based employability model that will help prepare students for their careers. This model includes joint curriculum development, mandatory internships, university-industry joint investment in research and innovation, and government policy support. The study analysis shows that if effective partnerships are developed between universities and industry, the young generation of Bangladesh will become more competitive in the modern labor market. In addition, this partnership will also contribute significantly to the country's economic growth and sustainable development.