Recent headlines lament the absence of Bangladeshi universities in the top 800 of the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings. While this is concerning, I want to highlight a different story. Despite significant challenges, some Bangladeshi institutions are emerging as unexpected leaders in research quality, demonstrating resilience and innovation in a competitive academic landscape. It’s not fair to generalise, but the achievements of the top 1000 THE-ranked Bangladeshi universities speak volumes.
Encouraging Trends in Rankings
The 2025 Times Higher Education rankings reveal impressive research quality scores for institutions like Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Daffodil International University (DIU), and North South University (NSU). Scoring between 75 and 82, these universities exceed the global average of 60 for universities in the 801-1000 ranking band, showcasing their ability to outperform peers in terms of research output.
These achievements are remarkable given their low Research Environment scores – 9.1 to 11.5 compared to the global average of 21.0. Even BUET, beyond the top 1000, stands out with a Research Environment score of 16.4 and a research output score of 62.2. This disparity underscores the high-impact work Bangladeshi researchers produce despite limited resources.
How Are They Excelling?
Bangladeshi universities are excelling by prioritising high-impact research areas that yield substantial benefits without requiring extensive infrastructure. Many disciplines allow impactful work with minimal resources, and strategic focus helps maximise research influence.
Faculty dedication is another critical factor. In an environment where funding is scarce and rewards for research are minimal, academics innovate and persevere to produce quality work. However, the benefits of such efforts often favour resource-rich collaborative partners, as Bangladeshi researchers frequently go above and beyond in joint projects.
Global Comparisons
Compared to global peers in the same ranking band, Bangladeshi universities often excel in research quality, even with constrained resources. DIU’s score of 82.6, along with NSU and Jahangirnagar University’s scores of 80.3 and 75.4 respectively, significantly exceed the global average of 60. These accomplishments are noteworthy, given the heavy teaching loads, limited funding, and lack of advanced facilities faced by academics.
It’s worth noting that THE rankings rely on Scopus, Elsevier’s extensive database of peer-reviewed literature. Publishing in Scopus-indexed journals is challenging but critical for global recognition. The success of Bangladeshi academics in this area underscores their dedication and capability.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite their progress, only a handful of Bangladeshi universities achieve high research quality. Expanding this success requires fostering a broader research culture, improving infrastructure, and increasing funding. High-quality research not only boosts institutional reputations but also drives innovation, attracts collaborations, and contributes to national development.
Targeted investments and supportive policies are essential for creating a sustainable research ecosystem. Simplifying grant processes and incentivising impactful research can help bridge the gap between high-achieving institutions and the broader academic landscape.
Lessons from Success
Institutions like DIU demonstrate what’s possible with strategic focus. DIU’s research quality score of 82.6, despite a low Research Environment score of 11.5, highlights effective resource maximisation and robust international collaborations. Similarly, NSU and Jahangirnagar University exemplify how resilience and strategic planning can overcome infrastructural challenges.
These successes show that Bangladeshi universities can achieve remarkable academic milestones, even with limited resources.
Final Thoughts
Bangladeshi universities have made commendable progress in research quality, but much work remains to bridge the gap across the sector. Without targeted efforts to improve infrastructure, increase funding, and foster research culture, sustaining these achievements will be challenging.
The strides made so far prove that Bangladeshi universities can excel in global academic conversations. Building on this foundation will drive innovation, strengthen institutions, and pave the way for a brighter future for the nation.
Quazi Tafsirul Islam
is the Coordinator at NSU Startups Next and a Senior Lecturer of Strategy & HR, SBE, at North South University. He is also a Series Editor for Emerald Group Publishing and an Independent Trainer & Consultant.