Dhaka:The World Bank Group's Board of Executive Directors has approved financing of $300 million aimed at enhancing the learning outcomes for 26 million children in Bangladesh, from pre-primary through Grade 5. This initiative, known as the Learning Enhancement and Acceleration in Primary Education Program, seeks to advance the country's pre-primary and primary education system.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the program will assist children in acquiring essential skills in reading, writing, and mathematics appropriate to their grade levels. It aligns with the government's Fifth Primary Education Development Program. Despite Bangladesh's achievement of nearly universal access to primary schooling, the quality of education remains a challenge, with approximately 50 percent of 10-year-olds unable to read and understand simple, age-appropriate text.
The primary education system in Bangladesh is among the largest globally, encompassing over 20 million children in government schools, NGO schools, kindergartens, and madrasas. The initiative will roll out a foundational literacy and numeracy package, including teaching materials, structured lesson plans, and teacher training. It also emphasizes leadership training for headteachers in 90% of government primary schools and aims to strengthen school management systems.
Jean Pesme, World Bank Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, highlighted the importance of quality primary education for creating a globally competitive workforce. He noted the World Bank Group's ongoing support over the past two decades in bringing nearly all children to school in Bangladesh and stressed that the new financing will enhance children's learning and retention in school.
The program is designed to ensure no child is left behind, providing remedial learning for those falling behind, particularly in underperforming districts. It also supports improved teacher and school leadership, more accountable budgeting, and better use of data for decision-making. The initiative is expected to generate 843,000 more and better-paid jobs in government primary schools.
Financing for the program comes from the International Development Association (IDA), a World Bank Group entity assisting lower-income countries, with a 25-year term and a five-year grace period.