Dhaka:State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj emphasized the importance of integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education at the primary level to foster creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking in children.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister addressed a consultation meeting at the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation building in Agargaon, where he stated that primary education should extend beyond textbooks and examinations to stimulate children's natural interests and analytical abilities. The meeting was organized by the Campaign for Popular Education (CAMPE) and NETZ Bangladesh, focusing on the prospects and challenges of STEM education at the primary level.
Bobby Hajjaj, serving as the chief guest, highlighted the government's focus on creating an engaging learning environment from the early stages of education. He underscored the necessity of equipping children with critical thinking and analytical skills in response to the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. The minister mentioned that the rapid advancement of AI would significantly alter the skills demanded in the future job market, necessitating the development of problem-solving abilities and informed decision-making from a young age.
Speaking on teachers' remuneration, Hajjaj stressed the importance of ensuring respect, dignity, and financial benefits for teachers to attract talented and qualified individuals to the profession. He also shared initiatives to enhance the enjoyment of classroom learning, mentioning the development of over 420 educational games for students from grades one to five, aimed at making lessons in Bangla, mathematics, and science more engaging. Additionally, the government plans to introduce educational toys made from locally available materials, aligning with the national curriculum and the efforts of the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB).
The meeting was attended by several key figures, including Director General of the Directorate of Primary Education Shahina Ferdousi, Director General of the National Academy for Primary Education (NAPE) Farid Ahmed, NCTB Member (Primary) Professor Md Nurunnabi Alam, and NETZ Bangladesh Country Director Shahidul Islam. Campaign for Popular Education Executive Director Rasheda K Choudhury presided over the event, which called for stronger partnerships between government and non-government organizations to ensure quality and inclusive STEM education for all children.