Unnecessary holidays in educational institutions to be reduced: Bidhan

NN ONLINE:

Primary and Mass Education Adviser Prof. Dr. Bidhan Ranjan Roy Podder today said that unnecessary holidays in educational institutions will be reduced in order to increase classroom learning time for students.

“Currently, students attend classes for only 180 days out of 365 days in a year, which is not sufficient, especially for primary-level students,” the adviser said.

The adviser made the remarks at a press conference held at the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education at the Secretariat, marking the occasion of International Literacy Day. He said discussions have already been held with teachers in this regard. As per the directive of the Chief Adviser, a revised academic calendar with reduced holidays and increased-class days will be announced soon.

“A new calendar for educational institutions is being prepared and will be announced shortly,” he added. Highlighting the literacy status, Bidhan stated that the current literacy rate in the country stands at 77.9 percent.

“The government is working not only to raise this percentage but also to improve the quality of education,” he said. Referring to the rising dropout rates, he expressed concern and said, “The dropout rate has increased compared to previous years, and this is not a desirable situation.”

Emphasizing the importance of foundational learning, he said, “Primary education is the cornerstone of a student’s academic journey.”  If the foundation is strong, the rest will follow. That’s why we aim to transform primary education into real education, he added.

To address learning gaps, the adviser mentioned that schools have been instructed to conduct extra classes for students who are falling behind. He also announced a midday meal program will be introduced soon in primary schools. “Each student will receive a nutritious meal consisting of ‘ban roti’, banana, egg and local fruits,” he said.

Secretary of the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, Director General of the Bureau of Non-Formal Education and senior officials of the ministry and its affiliated departments were present at the event.