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Education ministry adviser Professor CR Abrar, among others, attends an event organised by the University of Sussex at the Sheraton Hotel at Banani in Dhaka on Monday. | Press release

The University of Sussex, United Kingdom’s first post-war university opened in 1961, is now welcoming Bangladeshi students for postgraduate study with the £4,000 Sussex Bangladesh scholarship.

In 2025, postgraduate applications from Bangladesh rose by 27 per cent, while undergraduate enrolments increased by 50pc, which reflects Bangladeshi students’ rising demand for world-class, research-led UK education and globally recognised degrees, said a press release on Monday.


To strengthen connections with its alumni in Bangladesh, Sussex hosted a gathering at the Sheraton Hotel in Banani, Dhaka, attended by over 40 alumni.

The event brought together graduates now leading in public service, academia and industry, while also connecting current offer holders with mentors and role models.

Discussions highlighted Sussex’s growing presence in Bangladesh and how alumni are supporting future students through scholarships, research collaborations and professional guidance.

C Rashaad Shabab, associate dean for education and students at Sussex business school, said that it was a privilege to join offer holders and alumni in Dhaka. ‘The energy in the room reflected both the pride of our graduates and the growing confidence Bangladeshi students place in Sussex.’

He added, ‘We are proud to count leaders such as Professor CR Abrar among our distinguished alumni, and it is inspiring to see the emerging leaders eager to follow in their footsteps.’

Professor CR Abrar, adviser to the Ministry of Education and a Sussex alumnus, reflected on his experience, ‘Sussex shaped not only my academic journey but also my lifelong commitment to student-centring learning and public service.’

The university’s culture of debate, diversity and activism left an indelible mark on me, and I see the same spirit inspiring the aspiring Bangladeshi scholars today, he added.