President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday urged the country's public and private universities to undertake effective initiatives to ensure international-standard education and research to foster skilled and innovative human resources.

The President made the call when a delegation from the Central University of Science and Technology (CUST), led by Board of Trustees Chairman Md. Zahidul Islam, paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban this afternoon, according to sources at the President’s Press Wing.

The Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Treasurer, and members of the university's trustee board were present during the meeting.

"Science and technology-based higher education is driving force for sustainable development. To face the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it is necessary to enhance students’ technological skills, creativity and research capabilities," he stated.

During the call, the Chairman of the university’s trustee board briefed the President on CUST's career-oriented academic programs, including Artificial Intelligence, Digital Marketing, and Nursing, as well as the institution's future development plan.

The delegation expressed gratitude to the President for his guidance and sincere cooperation. The President’s Military Secretary and Secretary were also present at the audience.