North South University (NSU) is a private research university located in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. Established in 1992, it is the first private university in the country and one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning. NSU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study, such as engineering, business, health, law, humanities and social sciences. NSU is also known for its research activities, collaborations with international partners, and community engagement.
History and Vision
NSU was founded by the Foundation for Promotion of Education and Research (FPER), a charitable, non-profit, non-commercial and non-political organization. The vision of FPER was to create a world-class university that would provide quality education and research opportunities to the people of Bangladesh and beyond. The founding members of FPER included eminent academics, professionals, entrepreneurs and philanthropists who shared a common vision of excellence and innovation.
NSU started its academic journey in 1993 with only 137 students and three departments: Computer Science, Business Administration and Economics. Since then, NSU has grown significantly in terms of student enrollment, faculty strength, academic programs, physical facilities, research output and reputation. Today, NSU has over 22,000 students, 700 faculty members, 17 departments, four schools, two institutes and a center. NSU has also moved to a permanent campus in Bashundhara Residential Area, which covers an area of 105 acres and has state-of-the-art facilities.
Academic Programs and Quality
NSU offers a wide range of academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The undergraduate programs include Bachelor of Architecture, Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Civil, Computer, Electrical and Electronic, Electronic and Telecom), Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Environmental Science and Management, Microbiology, Pharmacy, Bachelor of Business Administration (with various majors), Bachelor of Arts in English, Bachelor of Laws (LLB Hons) and Bachelor of Social Science in Media and Journalism. The graduate programs include Master of Business Administration (MBA), Executive MBA (EMBA), Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Science in Biotechnology (MSBT), Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering (MSCSE), Master of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (MSEEE), Master of Science in Telecommunication Engineering (MSTE), Master of Laws (LLM) and Master of Development Studies (MDS).
NSU is committed to ensuring the quality of its academic programs and services. NSU follows the curriculum guidelines and standards set by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, the apex body for higher education in the country. NSU also maintains close links with reputed universities and organizations around the world for academic exchange, collaboration and accreditation. Some of the notable partners include Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT, University of Pennsylvania, University of Cambridge, University College London, Imperial College London, Nanyang Technological University, National University of Singapore, Asian Institute of Technology, World Bank Institute and United Nations Development Programme.
Research Activities and Impact
NSU is a research-intensive university that aims to generate new knowledge and contribute to the advancement of science and society. NSU has a vibrant research culture that fosters creativity, curiosity and collaboration among its faculty members and students. NSU has established several research centers and institutes that focus on various areas of interest, such as biotechnology, environmental science, public health, engineering, business analytics, governance studies and media studies.
NSU also encourages interdisciplinary research that addresses the contemporary challenges facing Bangladesh and the world. Some of the current research projects at NSU include developing novel vaccines for infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and dengue fever; exploring renewable energy sources such as solar power and biofuels; designing smart cities and sustainable urban planning; analyzing social media trends and digital journalism; promoting human rights and democracy; enhancing food security and nutrition; improving disaster management and resilience; fostering entrepreneurship and innovation; etc.
NSU’s research activities have a significant impact on both academic and societal domains. NSU’s faculty members publish their research findings in reputed national and international journals and conferences. NSU’s researchers also collaborate with government agencies and non-governmental organizations to provide policy advice and technical assistance on various issues. NSU’s research outcomes also benefit the local communities through outreach programs and social initiatives.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
NSU is not only an academic institution but also a social institution that cares about its stakeholders and society at large. NSU believes that education is not only about acquiring knowledge but also about applying it for the greater good. NSU strives to instill a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement among its students, faculty members and staff.
NSU has various clubs and societies that organize various extracurricular activities and events for the students. These include cultural, sports, literary, debating, social service, environmental, religious and professional clubs. These clubs provide opportunities for the students to showcase their talents, develop their skills, network with peers and mentors, and have fun.
NSU also has a strong tradition of community service and social action. NSU’s students, faculty members and staff participate in various volunteer programs and campaigns that aim to help the underprivileged and marginalized sections of the society. Some of the examples of NSU’s community engagement initiatives include blood donation drives, free medical camps, tree plantation drives, disaster relief operations, awareness campaigns on health, education, environment, human rights, etc.
North South University is a pioneer of private higher education in Bangladesh that has achieved remarkable success in a short span of time. NSU is a center of excellence that provides quality education and research opportunities to its students and faculty members. NSU is also a socially responsible institution that contributes to the development and well-being of its stakeholders and society. NSU is a proud member of the global academic community that aspires to make a positive difference in the world.
