Instead of the Primary Education Completion Examination, schools will be evaluated on a green–yellow–red scale based on a basic skills survey modelled on the National Student Assessment (NSA). Headteachers and Upazila Education Authorities will ensure schools meet the “green” standard, while student progress will be tracked through continuous and annual evaluations.
The Primary Education Consultant Committee, led by Dr Manzoor Ahmed, proposed these changes in a report submitted to the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education on Monday.
Key Recommendations
- Abolishing the assistant teacher post—All primary school careers should start with the title “teacher”, with later promotions to “senior teacher”.
- Single-shift schools and longer classes—Schools should move to a single shift, with 75-minute lessons for Bengali and mathematics to strengthen foundational skills.
- Better teacher-to-pupil ratio—A recommended 1:30 ratio to enhance learning quality.
- Support for disadvantaged groups—Special initiatives for pupils with disabilities, child labourers, ethnic minorities, and those in remote areas.
- Decentralised governance—Pilot projects in 20 upazilas to improve school management under the Fifth Primary Education Development Programme.
- Higher teacher salaries— A separate pay structure and better career prospects for primary teachers.
Dr Ahmed stressed the need for swift government action and a time-bound implementation plan, using the education budget and the Fifth Primary Education Development Programme to drive reforms.