Education Minister Dr A N M Ehsanul Hoque Milon has stressed the need for teachers to develop in-depth knowledge of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to keep pace with students in an increasingly technology-driven world.

“Students are now highly proficient in information technology, so teachers must continuously update their technological skills and knowledge,” he said while inaugurating an orientation training programme for 49th BCS (General Education) cadre officers at the Rural Development Academy (RDA) in Bogura on Tuesday (13 October).

Addressing the newly recruited officers, the minister said an ideal teacher should create opportunities for students who lack the confidence to ask questions, particularly those sitting at the back of classrooms.

He also emphasised the importance of research in improving the education system and developing the teaching community. He said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had accorded the highest priority to education.

Milon urged teachers to perform their duties with dedication and sincerity, putting aside political affiliations and differences to help build a modern and developed Bangladesh.

A total of 613 newly recruited BCS General Education cadre officers are participating in the eight-day orientation programme.

The programme was chaired by Secondary and Higher Education Division Secretary (routine charge) Dr Sardar Md Keramat Ali. Several education officials and political representatives attended the event.

Speaking to journalists after the programme, Milon said the government was planning to arrange supplementary examinations within 15 days of the publication of Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination results for students who fail in up to two subjects.

The initiative aims to prevent students from losing an entire academic year because of failure in a limited number of subjects, he said.

Students who fail to pass the supplementary examinations would be transferred to technical or vocational education streams, the minister added.

Later, Milon inaugurated Khan Academy Bangladesh’s educational support programme at 100 educational institutions in Bogura, Netrokona and Cox’s Bazar. He also planted a commemorative tree on the premises of RDA Laboratory School and College.