Fix the basics of primary schools first

We are increasingly worried about the state of primary education in the country. According to a recent report by Prothom Alo, the number of students across 2,269 government primary schools (Class 1 to 5) in Chattogram district has dropped to 4,43,447 this year, from 4,87,670 students in 2022. The latest data from the Integrated Primary Education Management Information System (IPEMIS) shows that 500 of these schools have fewer than 100 students enrolled, while 228 schools have 70 or fewer students, and 21 have 50 or fewer. Many schools, whose buildings have been declared unsafe, are being operated from tin-shed structures. Meanwhile, 824 schools have no headteacher and are being run by senior assistant teachers, while 1,108 assistant teacher posts remain vacant as 526 candidates currently await appointment. Moreover, 500 schools have no playground, 18 schools lack electricity, 1,166 have no internet connection, and 94 do not have libraries.

Shortages of teachers and administrative staff, inadequate infrastructure, rapid expansion of private schools and madrasas, and a lack of educational resources have converged to bring the district’s primary education to this state. These are the facts. But the biggest issue is the blatant disregard of authorities for the primary schools in a major district of the country. Recent discussions have focused on introducing new subjects and whether or not the lottery-based admission system should be retained. But shouldn’t policymakers be more worried that the very foundation of education has been so systematically weakened?

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Read more

We cannot continue to fail young learners

Last month, we expressed our concern over students' poor proficiency in Bangla, English, and basic Maths of a large section of primary school students. However, the children cannot be held responsible for such failings. The lack of resources in primary schools is an obvious factor. Over 175 days after the publication of final results, 14,384 candidates selected for assistant teacher posts in primary schools have reportedly yet to receive appointment letters. Combined with the aforementioned teacher shortages, can we not conclude that government authorities are to blame for the lack of regulation in this sector?

The future of a generation of Bangladesh’s children is in dire risk. The relevant authorities must realise this soon and begin working efficiently. We urge that vacant assistant teacher and headteacher posts countrywide are immediately filled and that schools are provided with all key facilities. Relevant authorities must ensure that children, irrespective of where they are born in the country, receive the best possible education at the primary level.