KUET Vice-Chancellor Reappointed: A Look at Leadership and University Governance in Bangladesh
Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET) will once again be led by Prof Dr Muhammad Masud, who was reappointed as Vice-Chancellor on Monday, March 16, 2026. The announcement, made by Education Minister Dr A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon, marks a significant moment for the university, particularly following a period of student unrest and leadership transitions.
A Return After Student Protests
Prof. Masud’s reappointment is notable as it follows his previous departure in February of last year. This occurred amidst extensive student protests at KUET, which lasted over two months. The protests stemmed from concerns regarding campus safety and accusations of support for the reinstatement of campus politics. He initially took charge in an acting capacity following the resignation of Mihir Ranjan Halder and Pro-VC Professor Sobahan Mia in August 2024, before being officially appointed for a four-year term in September 2024. His subsequent removal in April 2025 underscored the intensity of the student movement.
Academic Credentials and Experience
Dr. Masud brings a wealth of academic experience to the role. He holds an MSc and PhD in Engineering from Nagoya University in Japan, completed in 2003 and 2006 respectively. His research output is substantial, with over 150 published papers in national and international journals and conferences, alongside authored books and book chapters. He has similarly held research positions at NASA-funded aerospace centres and lectured at universities in the United States and other countries.
Prior to his Vice-Chancellor roles, Dr. Masud served in various administrative positions at KUET, including Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department, Provost of a residential hall, Chairman of CRTS, and President and General Secretary of the teachers’ association. He also played a key role in organizing the International Conference on Mechanical, Industrial and Energy Engineering (ICMIEE) as its conference secretary.
A Career Spanning Decades
Dr. Masud’s connection to the institution dates back to 1998, when he joined as a lecturer at the then Bangladesh Institute of Technology (BIT), Khulna – which later became KUET. He progressed through the ranks, becoming an assistant professor in 2003, an associate professor in 2009, and a professor in 2011.
Broader Context: Leadership Changes in Bangladeshi Universities
The reappointment of Prof. Masud is part of a wider trend of leadership changes across several public universities in Bangladesh. Education Minister A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon announced the appointments of Vice-Chancellors for six other universities alongside KUET, and a total of nine universities received new leadership on March 16, 2026. This suggests a concerted effort by the government to refresh leadership within the higher education sector.
FAQ
Q: What led to the previous removal of Prof. Dr. Masud as KUET VC?
A: He was relieved of his duties following student protests concerning campus safety and allegations of supporting the reinstatement of campus politics.
Q: Where did Prof. Dr. Masud obtain his PhD?
A: He completed his PhD at Nagoya University in Japan.
Q: How many research papers has Prof. Dr. Masud published?
A: He has published over 150 research papers in national and international journals, and conferences.
Q: Who announced the reappointment of Prof. Dr. Masud?
A: Education Minister Dr A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon announced the decision.
Did you know? Prof. Masud has experience working at a NASA-funded aerospace centre.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about university leadership changes can provide valuable insights into the direction of higher education in Bangladesh.
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