Dr. Md. Shafiqul Alam
Dr. Md. Shafiqul Alam, the son of a proud martyred freedom fighter, is a highly accomplished academic leader with extensive experience in administration and academic management of higher education. Currently he is serving as the Registrar at Bangladesh Open University (BOU) since May 2018. His exceptional leadership skills, coupled with his expertise in project planning and management, training, and research implementation, have earned him a distinguished reputation in the field of education.
With over 32 years of experience in the field, Dr. Alam possesses a deep understanding of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and education policies, including quality assurance. His academic journey includes the completion of a PhD in Education Policy from the prestigious University of Hong Kong, where he acquired in-depth knowledge and expertise in educational systems and policies. Furthermore, he pursued post-doctoral training and research on teaching and learning technologies at Charles Sturt University, a renowned distance education provider in Australia. Driven by his commitment to continuous professional growth, he has actively participated in various professional development courses and training programs on ODL, both domestically and internationally.
Dr. Alam’s scholarly contributions are noteworthy, with 21 articles published in national and international journals. His research focuses on key issues in education, offering valuable insights to the academic community. Moreover, his involvement in seminars, conferences, workshops, and meetings has taken him to 22 countries, where he has established strong connections with international organizations, universities, and professional bodies. These global networks further enhance his ability to bring forth innovative ideas and collaborate on educational initiatives.
Dr. Alam’s extensive portfolio includes numerous key positions within BOU. Prior to his current role, Dr. Alam held the position of Director (Planning) and he has served as the Director of various divisions, including Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Computer Division, Student Support Services Division, Library and Documentation Division, Information and Public Relations Division, and Planning and Development Division. These diverse responsibilities have provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the institution’s multifaceted operations.
Dr. Alam’s extensive involvement in various committees and organizations reflects his commitment to advancing education and his exceptional leadership skills. He has served as Chairman/Member of the Tender Evaluation Committee and Secretary of the Board of Governors, Academic Council, and Academic Planning Committee at Bangladesh Open University (BOU). Additionally, Dr. Alam has made valuable contributions as a member of the Investment Committee, President of the Teachers, Officers, and Employees Special Welfare Fund, and a member of the Editorial Board of the Central Journal of Bangladesh Open University. His dedication to educational development is further evident through his roles in the National B.Ed Curriculum Development Team for ‘Agricultural Education Teaching’ under the Ministry of Education, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Dr. Alam’s broad range of committee involvements showcases his exceptional leadership and commitment to fostering academic excellence and institutional growth.
Dr. Alam’s international work and collaborations have been instrumental in fostering global partnerships and advancing education on a broader scale. As a United Nations Training and Research Institute Fellow in 2002, he gained valuable insights and expertise in international development initiatives. Dr. Alam’s association with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), Canada as an intern in 1991 and as a reviewer for the Journal of Learning for Development in 2013 demonstrates his contributions to the field of open and distance learning. His involvement in the SAARC Consortium on Open and Distance Learning (SACODIL) as a Nodal Officer in 2007 showcases his commitment to regional cooperation and knowledge sharing. Additionally, Dr. Alam has been an active member of various committees and associations, including the International Institute for Qualitative Methodology (IIQM) at the University of Alberta, the Australia Alumni Association, and the Commonwealth of Learning Review and Improvement Model Implementation Project at BOU. These international collaborations highlight Dr. Alam’s dedication to fostering cross-cultural exchanges and enhancing educational practices worldwide.
In summary, Dr. Md. Shafiqul Alam’s illustrious career as an academic leader, researcher, and administrator demonstrates his unwavering commitment to advancing education. His exceptional qualifications, including a PhD from the University of Hong Kong and extensive international experience, make him a valuable asset to the academic community. Driven by a passion for quality education and continuous improvement, Dr. Alam continues to contribute significantly to the growth and success of Bangladesh Open University and remains dedicated to shaping the future of education in Bangladesh and beyond.