The British Council organised Education UK Exhibition 2017 in Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet from 26 January to 1 February 2017. 21 globally renowned British universities participated in the biggest UK education exhibition in Bangladesh.
Professor Abdul Mannan, Honourable Chairman, University Grants Commission, Bangladesh inaugurated the event as the chief guest. He said, "Bangladesh boasts a highly talented pool of youth with the potential to become productive members of our economy. The education system in Bangladesh has been continuously improving over the years, but it is also true that more of our youth visiting abroad to receive knowledge and skills under some of the best education systems in the world and coming back to serve their nation would add immense value to our economy and society as well." Alison Blake, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, graced the event as the special guest. Barbara Wickham, Director, British Council hosted the inauguration ceremony.
More than 1900 visitors attended the event in Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet - more than enough to keep institutions busy throughout the four days in three cities it lasted. Feedback from the students, parents, teachers, counsellors, agents and UK institution delegates attending was overwhelmingly positive. The students who attended the exhibition; most of them were pre-registered and did pre-research on the UK institutions taking part. Most of them were much focused, genuine and looked for scholarship in many institutions. There was an alumni corner for the UK Graduates to promote Bangladesh UK Alumni Network in Dhaka. The alumni counselled voluntarily throughout the day and shared their wonderful experience of study in the UK. Seminars on IELTS consultation programme were also held in three cities in various slots. Visitors found it useful as many of them are planning to sit for the exam. A ‘selfie contest’ was also arranged which was also a highlight of the event.
The exhibition plays a key role through which the British Council creates opportunities for students to learn about study opportunities in the UK and in turn, to prepare them for a great career by giving them a competitive advantage in the international market.