A landmark step has been taken in the education sector as University Grants Commission (UGC) and Daffodil International University (DIU) signed an agreement to install solar panels in public universities under the OPEX model.
According to the plan, solar power will be generated in 32 public universities by 2026, with the project later expanding to all universities in phases. The initiative aims to reduce electricity costs and encourage green energy use on campuses.
The agreement signing ceremony was attended by UGC Chairman Prof. Dr. SMA Fayez as chief guest, with UGC members Prof. Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Prof. Dr. Masuma Habib, and Prof. Dr. Mohammad Ayub Islam as special guests. UGC Secretary Dr. Md Fakhrul Islam and DIU Registrar Dr. Mohammad Nadir Bin Ali signed the deal on behalf of their institutions.
UGC Director of Planning and Development Mohammad Maksudur Rahman Bhuiyan presided over the event, while DIU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. MR Kabir and Dean of Faculty of Engineering Prof. Dr. Shamsul Alam spoke.
Prof. Fayez stressed the need for increased solar power use in all universities to both protect the environment and cut costs. He also suggested colleges under the National University and private universities be included in phases.
Prof. Kabir highlighted the importance of research on renewable energy and said proper rooftop use could allow surplus power to be supplied to the national grid.
The OPEX model ensures universities will not need to invest directly, with 13 institutions providing investment. DIU will conduct surveys and technical assessments for the project.
The move follows Chief Adviser Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yunus’ directive to all government institutions to adopt rooftop solar power.
