Dhaka: The interim government has introduced a significant proposal aimed at increasing scholarships from secondary to higher education levels, thereby promoting the continued education of students.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a comprehensive proposal has been submitted by the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) to the Ministry of Education, recommending a 20 percent increase in scholarships, along with doubling both monthly stipends and one-time grants for students at SSC, HSC, and graduation levels.
If the proposal receives approval, the total number of scholarships available will rise from 41,000 to 49,151, adding 8,192 new scholarships. This initiative is anticipated to alleviate financial burdens on students and motivate talented individuals to pursue education from secondary school through to university.
Professor B. M. Abdul Hannan, the Director General (Additional Charge) of DSHE, stated that the proposal aims to maintain equilibrium across all educational levels. He noted that increasing junior-level scholarships without corresponding adjustments at higher levels could lead to imbalances. He expressed hope for the Finance Ministry’s approval, which would enable implementation within the current fiscal year.
Scholarship amounts have remained stagnant since the 2015-16 fiscal year, despite rising living and educational costs. The government has thus proposed increasing both the number of beneficiaries and financial aid after nine years.
Kamrun Nahar, Assistant Director of Planning and Development at DSHE, explained that the proposal seeks to ensure consistency across education levels by increasing rates for SSC, HSC, and undergraduate scholarships while also doubling stipends and grants. Saidur Rahman, a Joint Secretary of the Secondary and Higher Education Department, confirmed the proposal is under review and will be submitted to the Finance Ministry once finalized.
For SSC scholarships, the proposal suggests increasing the number from 25,500 to 30,600, with significant increases in stipends and grants for both talent pool and general recipients. Government spending over two years is projected to rise from Tk 25.78 crore to Tk 61.88 crore.
At the HSC level, the number of scholarship recipients is set to grow by 20 percent, with increases in stipends and grants for both talent pool and general scholarships. Total government expenditure over five years is estimated at Tk 74.86 crore, compared to the previous Tk 31.29 crore. HSC scholarships for medical students will be valid for up to five years.
For undergraduate scholarships, the proposal includes increases in both the number of scholarships and the financial support provided. Annual government expenditure at this level is projected to rise from Tk 3.06 crore to Tk 7.35 crore.