Dhaka: Education Minister Dr. ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon today announced that the practice of ‘silent expulsion’ will no longer be permitted in upcoming public examinations. ‘Expelling any student without proper legal procedure is not lawful. I instructed the concerned authorities to abolish the controversial Clause 29 immediately of the old education board policy,’ he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Milon made these remarks to BSS following a meeting with stakeholders to ensure the smooth conduct of the forthcoming Secondary School Certificate (SSC), Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC), and equivalent examinations set for 2026. Expressing surprise and dissatisfaction over the provision, he emphasized that there can be no such term as ‘silent expulsion,’ noting that past examinations under the Public Examinations Act of 1980 did not include such a rule, which he considers unlawful.
Milon stressed that any punishment must be administered through due process or transparent procedures. He highlighted that any allegations of cheating should be substantiated within the examination hall, adding that expelling a student silently while they are at home is unacceptable. He reassured that there is now no possibility of disorder at examination centers, leading to the instruction for an immediate amendment of the policy clause.
Addressing recent concerns on social media regarding ‘silent expulsion,’ Milon explained that the confusion might have stemmed from an outdated policy related to the SSC examination formulated in 1961. He announced that the Inter-Education Board Coordination Committee will soon issue a clarification notice to address these concerns.
Milon also outlined the timeline for upcoming examinations, stating that the HSC and equivalent exams will commence on July 2 and conclude within five weeks, while all preparations have been finalized for the SSC and equivalent examinations starting on April 21. He reassured students that stricter regulations are intended for teachers and center secretaries, aiming to enhance accountability and competence rather than targeting students.
Highlighting government efforts to enhance education quality, Milon mentioned that, for the first time in the country’s history, written examinations have been conducted through the Non-Government Teachers Registration and Certification Authority (NTRCA) for recruiting head teachers and principals, which will significantly improve the education system.
The meeting was attended by senior education ministry officials, chairpersons of various education boards, and, via Zoom, deputy commissioners, police superintendents, upazila nirbahi officers, education board officials, and teacher representatives from across the country.