A. N. M. Ehsanul Haque Milon has defended the decision to hold the primary scholarship examination, despite criticism over timing and student readiness. He spoke on Tuesday afternoon at a meeting in Bogura.
The meeting was organised by the district administration at Hotel Momo Inn. Heads of schools, colleges, and madrasas attended the discussion.
The minister said the scholarship exam was not held last year. After taking office, he noticed delays and decided not to rush the process. He said he arranged the exam himself to address the gap.
He also responded to criticism that many students who took the exam have already moved to Class Six and do not yet have textbooks. “Those without books were not told to sit for the scholarship exam,” he said. He added that selected students will receive financial support during Classes Six, Seven, and Eight.
Milon said some people reacted negatively to the decision. However, he believed the initiative would be seen as helpful for students in the long term.
Read More: Over 12,000 Students will participate in the Primary Scholarship Exam from Jessore
The minister also shared plans to improve primary education. He said the government aims to introduce mid-day meal programmes gradually in primary schools across the country. He stressed the need to strengthen teacher training as part of efforts to improve education quality.
He referred to a government plan to allocate 5 per cent of GDP to the education sector. However, he said it is still unclear how the funds will be fully used.
On coaching practices, Milon said in-house coaching within schools can continue. Teachers may share the fees paid by students. However, he made it clear that external coaching centres will not be allowed.
The government will continue to focus on policies aimed at improving education standards in the coming months.
