A final decision on whether educational institutions will introduce online classes may come after key meetings in Dhaka on Thursday (April 9). Officials are reviewing the issue after several days of discussion on saving electricity and reducing traffic congestion.
A seminar on the issue took place on Wednesday at the International Mother Language Institute. Ministers, education officials, teachers, students, and guardians attended the event. They discussed how to continue academic activities during the global energy crisis.
Most participants supported continuing classroom teaching instead of moving fully to online classes. However, the Education Minister said a limited trial of online learning could still be considered.
Sources said a detailed discussion was scheduled for Thursday morning at the Ministry of Education. The matter may also be placed before the cabinet for a final decision. The minister had earlier indicated that the government would decide after consultations.
At the seminar, Education Minister and Primary and Mass Education Minister A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon explained the government’s position. He said there is no plan to introduce online classes across the whole country at this stage.
Instead, the government is considering a combined system of physical and online classes on a trial basis. This test may take place in selected institutions such as Viqarunnisa Noon School and College and Ideal School and College in Motijheel.
The minister said the plan considers the global energy crisis and heavy traffic in large cities. He also said future education systems will depend more on technology. He added that changes would be introduced gradually for the new generation.
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During the event, students present at the seminar were asked to give their opinion. When asked to answer yes or no, many students responded positively to the trial idea.
However, many teachers, students, and guardians earlier spoke against online classes. They said device shortages and high internet costs remain major barriers. They also noted that students often struggle to stay attentive during online lessons.
Some guardians raised health concerns linked to long-term use of digital devices. They said too much screen time may affect eyesight and mental well-being. They also warned about the risk of mobile phone addiction among children.
Nishat Tithi, an eighth-grade student of Ahmed Bawani Academy School and College, said she does not support online classes. She said such a system could slow learning progress during the current academic schedule.
Some guardians suggested other ways to reduce pressure on electricity and transport. Shahida Begum, a guardian, proposed reducing daily class hours instead of moving online. She said shorter physical classes would better support learning.
Another guardian representative suggested introducing school bus services or group transport systems. He said this could reduce traffic without affecting classroom teaching.
Teachers and education experts also shared practical suggestions during the discussion. One head teacher proposed reducing the number of daily class periods. She also suggested holding classes during daylight hours to reduce power use.
University professors suggested regional weekly holidays and carpooling systems to reduce congestion. They said education must continue through careful crisis management. They also stressed that academic activities should not stop under any circumstances.
Officials are now expected to review all opinions before making a final announcement after the scheduled meetings.
