BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT) signed new cooperation agreements with four major industry partners on 25 November, aiming to deepen links between academic training and the needs of Bangladesh’s fashion and textile sector.
The MoU signing ceremony, held at the university’s Board of Trustees conference room, was attended by Faruque Hassan, chairman of BUFT’s Board of Trustees, as chief guest. Mohammed Nasir, a board member, and Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ayub Nabi Khan were also present, alongside senior officials from the participating companies.
Also Read: BUFT’s Evolution through the Eyes of Dr. Khan
BUFT formalised partnerships with Giant Group, Shasha Denim PLC, Fashion Step Group and the Professional Management Institute. University officials said the agreements are intended to expand practical training opportunities, strengthen research collaboration and support student skill development as employers seek a better-prepared workforce.
Faruque Hassan said Bangladesh’s apparel industry continues to rely heavily on imported cotton and petrochemical-based raw materials despite being the world’s second-largest exporter of ready-made garments.
He noted that the sector must intensify efforts in value addition, new market expansion and product diversification to sustain growth. He added that BUFT can support this transition by supplying skilled design developers and graduates trained to meet emerging industry demands.
Ayub Nabi Khan said BUFT is strengthening industry-oriented education to align graduates with emerging technological demands. He said the university is running focused short-term programmes of two to four months in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank and the Ministry of Finance under the Industry Competitiveness and Skill Development Project.
Also Read: Bangladesh Apparel Faces a Great Test — by Robert Antoshak
The courses include 3D fashion design, AI applications, robotics, nanotechnology and pattern design, providing students with hands-on exposure to technologies shaping the future of the global textile and apparel industry.
Leaders at the event said the partnerships represent a step toward aligning curricula with industry expectations and equipping graduates for an increasingly competitive global market.
