Dhaka: Education Adviser Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar has announced that the government is set to introduce the country’s first integrated education act. The initiative aims to establish education as a legal right for all citizens, marking a significant step forward in the national education system.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the proposed law seeks to fill the existing gap in recognizing education as a fundamental right. Professor Abrar, in an exclusive interview, emphasized that while education has long been regarded as a right, no comprehensive legislation has previously supported this notion. The new law is designed to provide a legal framework to uphold this right, with future rules and policies planned to enhance its effectiveness.
Professor Abrar addressed concerns about the legislation being rushed, stating that extensive discussions and consultations were carried out before drafting the law. These consultations involved students, teachers, education administrators, and other stakeholders from various districts to ensure a well-rounded approach.
Key features of the proposed law include the introduction of a Unique Identification Number (UIN) for each student, consolidation of substandard educational institutions, and a phased reduction in reliance on coaching centers and guidebooks. Additionally, the law proposes establishing a National Education Academy, expanding technical, ICT, and AI-based education, and prioritizing student safety and humane education.
The legislation also highlights the importance of students’ mental development, morality, human rights, and safety. It identifies sexual and mental abuse as misconduct, proposing punitive measures to address these issues. Professor Abrar emphasized that education should focus on developing well-rounded individuals with strong ethical values.
The introduction of the UIN system is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to streamline the documentation process for students across all levels of education. This system will store students’ information in a single database, eliminating the need for repeated verification during admissions and transfers.
Language skills are also a focus of the proposed law, which stresses the primary importance of the Bangla language while recognizing the value of English and other languages. The expansion of technology-based education, particularly through ICT and AI, is also a key component of the legislation.
Professor Abrar acknowledged that the law is not without its imperfections and welcomed opportunities for improvement. However, he asserted that the enactment of Bangladesh’s first integrated education act is a landmark achievement.
Sources indicate that the current education system in Bangladesh is governed by a fragmented array of circulars, policies, and rules. The new education act aims to consolidate these elements into a cohesive and effective framework, paving the way for a more streamlined and consistent educational landscape.