Dhaka: The National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) has embarked on a mission to correct historical inaccuracies in school textbooks by the 2027 academic year to deliver an authentic account of history.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, NCTB chairman Md Mahbubul Hoque Patwary revealed in an interview that the initiative aims to rectify long-standing distortions and introduce a curriculum that is timely and reflective of the country’s true historical narratives.
Patwary emphasized that the revisions would include the inclusion of significant events, such as the 2024 student-people mass uprising, which will occupy a place in the revised textbooks. He noted that expert committees are working diligently to address and amend the historical distortions that have previously been presented in educational materials. The revisions aim to properly acknowledge the contributions of Liberation War heroes and provide a balanced historical perspective.
The chairman further detailed that the revision process is comprehensive, covering significant movements from the 1990 mass uprising to the historic 2024 student-public uprising. A notable step in the revision process was a four-day intensive workshop held in Bogura, focusing on secondary-level textbooks. Patwary also mentioned ongoing efforts to revise primary-level textbooks.
A diverse group of 320 experts, including those from Dhaka University’s Institute of Education and Research, are involved in the revision of a total of 97 secondary-level and 36 primary-level books. Following the completion of secondary textbook revisions, efforts are now concentrated on primary textbooks, with a goal to finish by July to facilitate timely printing.
In total, 601 textbooks, including English-version books from primary to Grade 9, are undergoing revisions. The NCTB is committed to ensuring that students receive error-free and updated textbooks at the start of 2027.
Additionally, Patwary announced the introduction of three diverse new books for Grades 4 and 6. These include ‘Sports and Culture’ for Grade 4, designed to promote physical activity and curb digital addiction, and an experimental ‘Learning with Happiness’ book for Grade 6, aimed at enhancing the enjoyment of learning. A new book on Technical and Vocational Education for Grade 6 will also be introduced.
Addressing the need for modernization, Patwary mentioned that significant changes are being made to ICT books to incorporate artificial intelligence and modern technology, ensuring they are relevant for students from Grades 6 to 10. The government’s election pledge focuses on a student-friendly curriculum based on ‘experience-based learning,’ reducing the number of books while increasing practical education.
Looking ahead, Patwary hinted at major curriculum changes planned for 2028, potentially introducing a completely new curriculum. He urged parents to embrace the changes, highlighting the necessity of updating an outdated curriculum from 2012 to meet contemporary educational needs. The NCTB chairman expressed optimism that students will receive modern and accurate textbooks by January 2027.