The Ministry of Education has invited research proposals from faculty members and researchers working at public and private universities, as well as affiliated institutions across the country. The call is aimed at fostering quality research in a diverse range of disciplines critical to national development.

Applicants have been instructed to submit their Project Concept Note (PCN) through the research menu available on the website of the Bangladesh Bureau of Educational Information and Statistics (BANBEIS). The deadline for submission is set for Sunday. Proposals that fail to include all required information will be rejected. Moreover, individuals who previously applied must resubmit their applications afresh under the current call.

According to the official announcement, proposals are being sought in 11 specific fields. These include education, agriculture, life sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, information and communication technology (ICT), fisheries, business studies, Bangladesh development studies, engineering and technology, and development and public policy.

The scope of eligibility extends beyond faculty members of public and private universities. Teachers and researchers from colleges affiliated with the National University and Bangladesh Open University, as well as officers and employees from relevant government or autonomous institutions, may also apply. However, a completed PCN submission remains a mandatory prerequisite for consideration.

The Ministry has emphasized that both basic and applied research will be prioritized under this initiative. The guidelines further state that certain criteria will carry significant weight in evaluating proposals. These include a record of publication in reputable national and international journals, prior research experience, and participation in scholarly conferences both at home and abroad. Ongoing research projects will be considered if they demonstrate strong quality and adequate infrastructure. Past successes in research will also play a role in determining eligibility for research assistance.

Officials believe that this initiative will open up new avenues for innovation, problem-solving, and knowledge creation across multiple disciplines. By focusing on key areas that have a direct impact on society and the economy, the Ministry hopes to encourage scholars and professionals to contribute solutions that align with Bangladesh’s long-term development priorities.

In particular, the inclusion of ICT, business studies, and public policy reflects the growing importance of digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and governance in shaping future progress. Similarly, traditional fields such as agriculture, fisheries, and life sciences remain vital to addressing food security, environmental challenges, and public health concerns.

The call for proposals comes at a time when research capacity in Bangladesh is gaining momentum. With universities and institutions increasingly engaging in collaborative projects, both nationally and internationally, the Ministry’s program is expected to further strengthen the country’s research ecosystem.

While competition is likely to be high given the wide scope of disciplines, officials stress that the evaluation process will prioritize quality, originality, and practical relevance of the research. By ensuring that successful proposals meet rigorous academic and practical standards, the Ministry aims to support projects that can deliver meaningful outcomes not only for academia but also for policymakers, industries, and communities at large.

As the deadline approaches, anticipation is building among researchers eager to contribute to national development through impactful projects. The results of this call for proposals are expected to set the stage for future advancements in research and knowledge production in Bangladesh.