Dhaka: Time-appropriate reforms and development plans have been adopted in the secondary and higher education sectors since the interim government took office. The aim of these plans is to build a student-friendly, transparent, and modern education system.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the government has already initiated the process of online attestation of certificates for universities, higher secondary, and secondary exams for students planning to study abroad. This new system eliminates the need for students to seek embassy attestation once they receive online attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, thereby saving both time and money and reducing harassment.
In an effort to reform the education administration, the government has taken steps to divide the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education into two separate entities: the Directorate of Secondary Education and the Directorate of Higher Education. This decision, expected to be implemented by December 2025, aims to decentralize the education system and ensure faster service delivery.
An online transfer system for private secondary level teachers has been introduced, providing them the opportunity to change workplaces and experience new environments, thus reducing monotony. Additionally, the salaries and allowances of MPO-listed teachers and employees are now being paid through the Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) system, streamlining the process that was previously manual.
To curb political influence in managing committees of colleges and secondary schools, a process to form managing committees with government officials is underway. The draft regulations are prepared and are anticipated to be implemented by August.
The fiscal year 2025-26 budget proposes an allocation of Tk 47,563 crore for the secondary and higher education sector, exceeding the previous year’s budget. Textbooks have been revised and updated to enhance educational quality.
Moreover, under the Secondary and Higher Education Department, a plan to develop educational infrastructure costing Tk 1,957 crore through 62 projects, including building ICT infrastructure in Dhaka University, BUET, and JUST, is in place to promote research and start-up initiatives.
Stipends are also being provided to 51 lakh secondary, 8 lakh higher secondary, and one lakh 65 thousand meritorious undergraduate students in the current fiscal year. These initiatives by the interim government signify a substantial move towards inclusive development in the education sector.