Dhaka:Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr. ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon announced that severe penalties will be imposed on those responsible for distributing substandard textbooks.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister spoke at an event titled 'People's Thoughts on the Development of Kachua,' organized by the Kachua Upazila Association in Dhaka. He emphasized that there will be no compromise on the quality of textbooks, stating that substandard books already discovered have been cancelled and destroyed.
The minister highlighted the government's commitment to maintaining high standards in textbook printing, stressing that no foreign companies have been contracted for printing this year to support the local industry. He assured that quality books have been delivered on time in the past and expressed confidence in continuing this trend.
Additionally, Dr. Milon mentioned the expansion of the mid-day meal programme, currently operational in 150 upazilas, to ensure quality education. The programme will eventually allow students to buy meals from school canteens using coupons, with plans to diversify the menu.
He announced the introduction of sports and cultural books for fourth-grade students and a new curriculum focusing on technical education. The minister also outlined the goal of establishing technical schools and colleges in each upazila, introducing a third language at these institutions.
To ensure timely examinations, two sets of question papers will be prepared at different locations by the Bangladesh Government Press and the Army Security Printing Press. Changes to the re-evaluation process of examination answer scripts have been made based on practical considerations.
Dr. Milon also revealed plans for a cross-border education system to transform Bangladesh into an education hub. Amendments to university laws will permit foreign institutions ranked in the top 500 globally to establish branches in the country.
He urged the people of Kachua to prioritize education for the region's development. The programme was presided over by Jahangir Alam Pradhan and attended by notable figures, including BNP National Executive Committee member Najmun Nahar Baby, as well as educationists, officials, teachers, and students from Kachua. A reception for meritorious students was also held during the event.