Promotion of higher education in Bangladesh: a comparative analysis between public and private universities

This paper identified various factors relating to quality higher education both at public and private universities in Bangladesh. A search for different windows of opportunities to meet the increasing demand was accomplished. The study includes empirical observation of quality attributes and explanation based on those factors needed for ensuring quality higher education. The study is explanatory-descriptive as well as evaluation in nature. It emphasizes on qualitative one with some quantitative interpretation of data and information. It also used methodological triangulation including participant observation, case study, and survey through interview with the help of structured questionnaire having both open and close-ended questions. Population and sample included officials and students of selected universities; from whom respondents were selected purposively. Secondary data sources comprised relevant documents and publications of government agencies, different NGOs, archive, library, education and research institutions. Results found a significant difference in education system between those universities. The private universities offered specific disciplines having job prospect in the existing job market. Public universities were renowned for their contribution to the education sector. Quality higher education referred to quality faculty, educational environment, curricula, benefits to students and teachers (stipend, scholarships, opportunities of higher education home and abroad etc).