Dhaka: Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) Director General Prof Khan Moinuddin Al Mahmud Sohel has called on teachers to prioritize classroom responsibilities over engaging in political activities, emphasizing the nobility of the teaching profession in an interview with BSS at his office.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sohel stressed that teachers should derive pride from their professional identity, independent of political affiliations, to maintain their dignity and self-respect. He highlighted that aligning politically might compromise their personal dignity, especially given that government employees and educators at private institutions receive state support. Therefore, public promotion of political ideologies is deemed inappropriate for those in such responsible positions.
The DSHE chief outlined the need for enhancing the quality, professionalism, and ethical standards of teachers to elevate the nation’s education system to international standards. He underscored that societal and governmental expectations from teachers are significantly high. Thus, teachers must ensure regular classroom attendance, exhibit responsibility towards students, and foster modern thinking to deliver quality education.
Sohel articulated that classroom presence is not just an administrative duty but also a moral obligation. He warned that inadequate teaching could hinder the emergence of future leaders, asserting that active teacher participation is crucial for nurturing creativity and innovative thinking among students.
On the topic of a cheating-free educational environment, Sohel advocated for an education system where students wouldn’t even consider cheating, fostering confidence in their merit and abilities. He stated that the education administration is striving to shape the next generation into skilled, ethical, and competent citizens through the implementation of government policies.
Addressing the manpower shortage in the education sector, Sohel noted that it is a challenge faced by many sectors. However, he assured that the government is considering recruiting qualified personnel to fill these gaps. The aim is to have competent young individuals join the education administration, enhancing both the national economy and education quality.
Describing DSHE as the ‘apex body’ for secondary and higher secondary education, Sohel called for collective efforts from officials and the education community to meet educational goals outlined in the government’s election manifesto. He advocated for maintaining an integrated education system, resisting proposals to divide the sector, as a coordinated system is believed to enhance efficiency and goal attainment.
Regarding technical education, Sohel highlighted its potential role in economic development. He emphasized the importance of integrating vocational and technical education with general education to foster self-employment and entrepreneurship, thereby benefiting the national economy.
Finally, Sohel mentioned plans to decentralize the administrative structure to bring educational services closer to the people, facilitating easier implementation of government decisions at district and regional levels. He acknowledged that while DSHE faces no major crisis, the challenge lies in coordinated efforts to utilize skills and qualifications effectively for achieving success.