Special Seminar on “Higher Education Opportunities in France” Held at the University of Dhaka
A special seminar titled “Higher Education Opportunities in France” was held on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, at the Professor Dr. M. A. Latif Auditorium of the Department of Geology, University of Dhaka. The seminar was organized by the International Center for Ocean Governance (ICOG), University of Dhaka, in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Bangladesh, Campus France Bangladesh, and Expertise France, with the objective of informing university students and faculty members about opportunities for higher education, research, and international collaboration in France.
The seminar was chaired by the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Dhaka, Professor Dr. Abdus Salam. The Ambassador of France to Bangladesh, His Excellency Mr. Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, attended the event as the Chief Guest. Among others, the Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Professor Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir, Director of ICOG Dr. K. M. Azam Chowdhury, Cultural Attaché of the French Embassy Mr. Baptiste Lebret, and Country Head of Campus France Bangladesh Mrs. Nasiba Hossain delivered speeches at the seminar.
In his address, Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Abdus Salam emphasized the importance of expanding international collaboration and creating greater opportunities for students to pursue higher education at renowned universities worldwide. He stated that stronger academic and cultural cooperation between Bangladesh and France is essential for enhancing students’ competencies and professional skills. He also highlighted the importance of developing skilled human resources to address emerging global challenges.
French Ambassador Mr. Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet noted that France, with its world-class universities, research institutions, and innovative academic environment, has become an attractive destination for Bangladeshi students. He encouraged students of the University of Dhaka to take advantage of the higher education opportunities available in France.
During the seminar, it was announced that with the support of Campus France Bangladesh and Expertise France, one student from ICOG successfully completed a fully funded internship program at La Rochelle University, France. Additionally, another student obtained a postgraduate degree in France with the assistance of the French Embassy.A large number of young faculty members and students from different departments of the University of Dhaka attended the seminar.
Following the seminar, the French Ambassador visited the International Center for Ocean Governance (ICOG) at the University of Dhaka. Earlier, he paid a courtesy call on the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic), Professor Dr. Abdus Salam, at his office.
During the meeting, they discussed various issues including the possibilities of strengthening ongoing collaborative education and research activities between the University of Dhaka and different universities in France. They also explored opportunities for launching additional collaborative programs and student and faculty exchange initiatives. Furthermore, they emphasized the importance of conducting advanced research on air pollution and air quality in Dhaka to ensure environmental sustainability and public health protection
The Chief Guest highlighted the longstanding academic and cultural relationship between Bangladesh and France and expressed hope for stronger collaboration in higher education and research in the future. The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks to the organizers, guests, and participants for making the program successful.
The event provided valuable guidance and inspiration for students and researchers interested in pursuing higher education and international academic opportunities in France.
