ULAB, US Embassy sign MoU to manage EMK Centre

US ambassador Marcia Bernicat and ULAB vice chancellor professor HM Jahirul Haque sign an MoU on Tuesday. Photo: UNB
US ambassador Marcia Bernicat and ULAB vice chancellor professor HM Jahirul Haque sign an MoU on Tuesday. Photo: UNB

The US Embassy in Dhaka has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Liberally Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) to jointly manage the Edward M Kennedy Centre for Public Service and the Arts (EMK Centre).

Ambassador Marcia Bernicat and ULAB vice chancellor professor HM Jahirul Haque signed the MoU, said a press release issued by the embassy on Tuesday.

Under this public-private partnership, the EMK Centre will serve as a non-partisan, non-political platform that encourages educational exchange and promotes Bangladeshi and American culture, entrepreneurship, human rights, and democracy.

“Together we are accelerating collaboration between Bangladeshis and Americans. We want to ensure that the EMK Centre is a space where we can explore our commonalties and differences,” Ambassador Bernicat said. 

Most importantly, she said, they like to promote the spirit of sharing their cultures, ideas, and opportunities, reports UNB.

“I believe this makes Bangladesh, the United States, and the world a better, more caring and richer place to live,” Bernicat added.

ULAB vice chancellor professor Haque said, “We are very delighted to sign this MOU with the Public Affairs Section of the US Embassy.

“Our partnership is for the enlightenment of the young people in our society,” he added.

Located in Dhanmondi, the EMK Centre hosts interesting workshops, exhibitions, and cultural programs related to the United States. 

The Centre also hosts Education workshops and advising sessions to assist students interested in applying to US colleges and universities. 

The EMK Centre’s Maker Lab is a state-of-the art technological laboratory featuring Bangladesh’s largest 3D printer and a high-tech audio/visual recording studio.  

The EMK Small Grants program supports youth projects, education, community development and entrepreneurial activities in Bangladesh.