Primary schools set for digital transformation
The government plans to provide tabs to primary school teachers and digital devices to students in phases as part of efforts to introduce interactive digital learning systems in classrooms, State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj said on Tuesday.
Speaking at a seminar titled “Digital Gender Norms” organised by BBC Media Action in Dhaka, the state minister said the aim is to prepare the next generation for the digital age rather than keeping children away from technology out of fear.
He said children and adolescents should be guided to use technology safely, responsibly and positively instead of being disconnected from digital platforms.
Referring to the internet shutdown during the July 2024 mass uprising, Bobby Hajjaj said attempts to restrict public voices by cutting internet access were unsuccessful, showing that digital technology has become an inseparable part of social, state and civic life.
“The priority now is not to reject technology but to build the capacity to use it correctly,” he said.
The state minister said there is a growing gap between rapid technological progress and existing social and cultural values, which requires joint efforts from educational institutions, families, society and the government.
He stressed the need to train children and adolescents in safe online behaviour, information verification and digital ethics.
Expressing concern over the rise of fake photos, fake videos, character assassination and online harassment, he said women, adolescent girls and women politicians are among the worst affected.
He called for stronger accountability on digital platforms and effective laws and policies to protect children and women online.
Bobby Hajjaj said the government is incorporating value-based education, digital safety, life skills, gender sensitivity and civic values into the new primary curriculum with support from experts and development partners, including UNESCO.
He said the government does not want unnecessary restrictions on technology but seeks a balance between freedom and security through effective regulation.
On women’s empowerment, the state minister said ensuring women’s leadership requires more than slogans, stressing the importance of equal opportunities, rights, safety and confidence-building from childhood.
He said educational institutions must play a key role in creating a more inclusive society.
Representatives from BBC Media Action, UN Women, Plan International, Jaago Foundation, teachers, students and guardians from educational institutions in Khulna and Savar, and officials from various organisations attended the seminar.
