Dhaka: Primary and Mass Education Adviser Professor Dr. Bidhan Ranjan Roy Podder has announced that the government is prioritizing the development of every government primary school as an ‘autonomous’ entity to enhance the quality of primary education. Despite existing limitations, some schools have shown excellent performance. Podder emphasized that if schools operate autonomously and head teachers work collaboratively with parents, the quality of education could change significantly.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Podder made these remarks as the chief guest at the presentation of a research report titled ‘Evaluation of the impact of involving government primary school teachers in extra-professional activities’ at the Directorate of Primary Education in the capital. The event was organized by the National Academy of Primary Education (NAPE). Podder mentioned that the government is committed to providing the necessary budget and resources to the schools. He also highlighted the introduction of a ‘third party’ monitoring unit to conduct academic assessments and provide recommendations to the ministry.
Podder outlined plans to streamline the teachers’ recruitment and transfer processes at the district level, aiming to alleviate teachers’ difficulties. Addressing management challenges, he pointed out issues such as the lack of proper management and data availability, despite discussions on digitalization. He articulated the need for the effective use of technology to simplify and enhance people’s lives.
The research report presented at the event revealed that government primary school teachers engage in 37 types of extra-professional activities annually, dedicating an average of 24 hours per month to such tasks. Consequently, 90 percent of teachers struggle to focus entirely on classroom activities, and 85 percent are unable to conduct special classes for students who need additional support.
Podder emphasized that the study aims to raise awareness among the public and relevant organizations to prevent the assignment of non-educational tasks to teachers. He advocated for the establishment of a ‘Teaching Hour Protection Policy’ and the hiring of office or digital assistants in every school to support teachers.
Abu Taher Md Masud Rana, Secretary of the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, presided over the program, while Abu Noor Md Shamsuzzaman, Director General of the Directorate of Primary Education, and Farid Ahmed, Director General of NEP, attended as special guests.