Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has called on private universities to use funds saved from tax exemptions to enhance education quality and research. Speaking as chief guest at a discussion organized by the Association of Private Universities of Bangladesh at The Westin Dhaka, he emphasized self-regulation over government control and announced plans to bring all sectors and marginalized groups under GDP coverage by 2034.

He justified the tax waiver by describing education as a non-profit sector and said the 5% tax savings should be directed toward achieving international benchmarks and improving university ratings. Despite economic challenges, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to private sector–driven growth and policy continuity for five years to support long-term planning. He also urged universities to engage with the capital market and prioritize local ICT graduates and companies to reduce foreign dependence.

The event, chaired by APUB Chairman Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, was attended by UGC Chairman Prof. Mamun Ahmed and representatives from academia and industry, who praised the government’s supportive stance toward private higher education and research.