Dhaka: The government has sanctioned a plan to repair and renovate 12,531 government primary schools, which are designated to serve as polling centres during the forthcoming national parliament elections. These efforts are aimed at ensuring that the facilities are in adequate condition to accommodate voters and election officials.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education has issued a letter indicating that the Directorate of Primary Education has earmarked Tk 41.12 crore for the renovation of these educational institutions. Upazila-level officials have been given the authority to utilize the funds effectively. The financial allocation is part of the 'Other Buildings and Structures Sector' project, which has a total budget of Tk 80 crore for the current 2025-26 fiscal year.
The ministry's letter emphasizes that all officials must adhere to government financial regulations and provide evidence of VAT payments. It is mandatory to preserve all bills and vouchers for auditing purposes. In the event that the renovation work is not completed within the specified timeframe, responsibility will fall on the concerned upazila primary education officer, head teacher, and school management committee members. Additionally, any unspent funds are required to be returned to the government exchequer by June 30, 2026.
Many of these schools currently lack foundational or boundary walls, and numerous doors and windows are in poor condition, which could pose security risks if the schools are used as polling stations. In response to this situation, the Adviser to the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education has recently sent a demi-official letter to the Finance Ministry, requesting an additional Tk 124 crore for further renovation and repair of the primary schools.