The Next Frontier in Education
UCTC: Shaping tomorrow’s leaders through technology, innovation
Professor Dr Zahid Hossain Sharif, Vice-Chancellor, University of Creative Technology Chittagong
Daily Sun Report, Dhaka
Published: 12 May 2025
Tucked away in Bahaddarhat, Chattogram, the University of Creative Technology Chittagong (UCTC) has been steadily making a name for itself since its founding in 2017.
As a private university approved by both the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, UCTC was built with a forward-looking vision – one that places technology, innovation, and accessibility at the heart of higher education.
Today, the university is home to around 2,500 students pursuing degrees across ten academic programs, housed within three distinct faculties. These include fields like Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE), English Language and Literature, Islamic Studies (both undergraduate and postgraduate), Public Health, and Business Administration (BBA and MBA).
Over the past few years, UCTC has expanded its academic reach by launching new programs in EEE and Islamic Studies. These additions have resonated well with students, pointing to a rising interest in diverse, interdisciplinary education. The excitement surrounding these programs reflects a broader enthusiasm on campus for learning environments that blend practical knowledge with meaningful research opportunities.
UCTC’s academic team includes 75 permanent faculty members, many of whom have earned their credentials from internationally renowned institutions. Their teaching is further supported by 12 to 15 visiting lecturers who bring industry and academic expertise into the classroom. This balance allows students to gain not only solid theoretical foundations but also the hands-on experience needed to thrive in real-world settings.
The university’s commitment to modern education is evident in its facilities. The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, digital classrooms, a well-stocked library, and a digitally enabled administrative system.
Beyond academics, UCTC supports its students through scholarships, financial aid, and a vibrant mix of co-curricular activities – from cultural events and sports to leadership training and innovation workshops.
At its core, UCTC was founded with a mission: to deliver high-quality education at an affordable cost and to help cultivate a skilled, globally competitive workforce. It also aims to contribute to broader social progress by encouraging research and partnerships with industry.
Reflecting on the university’s journey and ambitions, Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Zahid Hossain Sharif said, “The main goal of establishing our university was to improve the quality of education, build a knowledge-based society, and encourage international standard research and innovation... In the future, we want to develop our university into one of the best higher education institutions in the country, where not only domestic but also international students will be attracted to study.”
He added, “We are aware of our responsibilities and are committed to providing every student with a safe, inspiring, and quality educational environment. Our dream is to establish this university as a ‘Center of Excellence’ that will set a new benchmark in the country’s higher education sector.”
Students have echoed these sentiments.
Sadia Jahan Tisha from the Department of English Language and Literature said, “The University of Creative Technology Chittagong is a wondrous land where dreams are woven… It is not just about textbooks; rather, students’ spiritual development, ethics, and leadership qualities are carefully cultivated… This university is not just an institution but a family where every dream gets wings.”
A BBA student added, “UCTC is not just an educational institution; it is a place where my self-confidence is built… Every teacher is our advisor, our guide. Co-curricular activities, practical labs, and opportunities for innovative thinking have set this university apart from others.”