Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has instructed the relevant authorities to expedite the appointment of headteachers to the vacant posts in government primary schools. This directive was issued during a meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna, as reported by Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder to BSS.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting was attended by Primary and Mass Education Adviser Professor Dr. Bidhan Ranjan Roy Podder, Chief Adviser’s Principal Secretary M Siraz Uddin Miah, and Primary and Mass Education Secretary Abu Taher Md Masud Rana, among others. During the session, Chief Adviser Prof Yunus inquired about the quality of education in government primary schools and the assessment of their performance.
Professor Bidhan Ranjan Roy highlighted that significant funds have been allocated for infrastructure development in the primary education sector, yet the primary goal of enhancing education quality remains unfulfilled. Efforts are being made to evaluate and rank schools to identify those performing well and to initiate special programs for schools that are lagging.
The adviser emphasized that the qualifications of headteachers, along with their interactions and attitudes with colleagues, significantly contribute to the quality of education. Currently, there are 32,000 vacant headteacher positions across the country, and steps are being taken to address this promptly.
Prof Yunus emphasized the need for appointing qualified individuals as headteachers, prioritizing experienced educators while also providing opportunities for young candidates. The Chief Adviser instructed that the appointment process be carried out efficiently and in coordination with the Public Service Commission (PSC).
Furthermore, the Chief Adviser directed changes in the teacher transfer policy to establish a clear process, minimizing lobbying and ensuring orderly transfers. He also raised concerns about gender-specific infrastructure, advocating for the involvement of female architects in school building committees to ensure women-friendly designs.
Prof Yunus underscored the importance of consistent internet access and multimedia classrooms in all primary schools to enhance the educational environment.