Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today directed authorities concerned to introduce e-learning at least 100 schools in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) within this year by resolving all crises immediately. He gave the directives at a meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting was attended by Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma, Liberation War Affairs and Disaster Affairs Adviser Faruk-e-Azam, Food and Land Adviser Ali Imam Majumder, Principal Secretary to the Chief Adviser M Siraz Uddin Miah, and other officials concerned. The officials highlighted three primary challenges in implementing virtual learning in the CHT schools: a shortage of electricity in remote areas, the absence of internet connections, and a lack of skilled teachers to conduct such activities.
To address these challenges, the Chief Adviser suggested the use of solar panels to mitigate the power shortage and recommended utilizing mobile networks and Starlink services to resolve connectivity issues. For the shortage of skilled teachers, he proposed preparing a list of schools and appointing teachers on a contract basis for a specific period.
Prof Yunus emphasized the importance of enhancing education quality in the weak areas of the CHT by first identifying 100 schools where internet-based education should commence. He instructed that any deficiencies in each school, such as internet connections and equipment, should be addressed immediately, with classes starting within this year.
He also mentioned that skilled teachers from prominent educational institutions in the city would teach mathematics, science, and English to the children of the CHT online. This initiative aims to ensure that children in these areas are not left behind and have access to quality education, which could lead to the emergence of many talented individuals from the region.
During the meeting, the CHT affairs adviser informed the Chief Adviser about efforts to improve the living standard and livelihood of people, as well as protecting the environment in the CHT. The Chief Adviser directed the formulation of a coordinated plan with the relevant ministries to address these issues.