Imagine building a skyscraper on a foundation of sand. No matter how majestic the structure, it will eventually crumble. Similarly, a society's progress and stability depend on the solid foundation of education, particularly primary education. It is the bedrock upon which future generations stand, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the modern world. In Bangladesh, significant progress has been made in achieving near-universal primary school enrollment. According to the World Bank, the enrollment rate in primary education reached an impressive 98 per cent in 2021. Despite these gains, the quality of education remains a pressing issue.
Bangladesh stands at 84th in the 2023 Quality of Education Index, far behind top-ranked Finland. Finland's success is attributed to holistic reforms, including a student-centred curriculum, highly trained teachers, and an emphasis on critical thinking. In contrast, a 2020 UNICEF report revealed that one in three children in Bangladesh could not read a simple sentence by the end of grade 3, highlighting significant learning gaps.
Teacher training in Bangladesh is insufficient, with only 25 per cent receiving formal child-centred method training, leading to reliance on rote learning that hampers critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Teacher absenteeism, especially in rural areas, exacerbates this. Investing in comprehensive training and continuous professional development is essential.
The current curriculum, focused on rote memorisation, needs reform to emphasise creativity, problem-solving, and digital literacy. Overcrowded classrooms and poor infrastructure, with 40 per cent of public primary schools having over 50 students per class, also need addressing to improve the learning environment.
Student assessments in Bangladesh are primarily exam-based, focusing heavily on memorisation. This method fails to accurately measure students' actual learning and essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. A 2021 report by the Institute of Educational Development highlighted that 70per cent of primary students are assessed through rote memorisation, hindering higher-order thinking skills. Bangladesh should introduce alternative forms of assessment, such as project-based evaluations and group activities, to better gauge student progress and foster essential life skills.
The digital divide poses a significant challenge. While urban schools have access to modern technology, many rural schools lack basic infrastructure, including electricity and internet connectivity. According to UNESCO, nearly 60 per cent of rural primary schools lack internet access, exacerbating educational inequalities. Bridging this digital divide is crucial. Providing access to digital tools and e-learning platforms and training teachers to integrate technology into classrooms can significantly enhance learning outcomes.
India has made headways in expanding access to primary education through initiatives like the Right to Education Act. However, the quality of education remains uneven, with significant disparities between rural and urban areas. Teacher absenteeism, inadequate infrastructure, and learning gaps persist. A 2021 World Bank report indicated low learning outcomes, particularly in rural regions, despite high enrollment rates.
Pakistan faces significant challenges in teacher quality and school infrastructure. A 2022 report from Pakistan's Ministry of Education revealed that up to 30 per cent of teachers in rural areas lack formal training, and 40 per cent of primary schools lack basic facilities. Pakistan's efforts to digitise education and introduce technology into classrooms could serve as a model for Bangladesh.
Nepal struggles with political instability and natural disasters, impacting its primary education system. Despite these challenges, efforts have been made to improve access and quality. Community involvement and international aid have played a crucial role in enhancing education. However, disparities between urban and rural areas remain a concern.
Bhutan's education system emphasises values-based education, focusing on moral development and practical skills alongside academic learning. This holistic approach has contributed to better educational outcomes. Bhutan's inclusive and student-centred practices could serve as a model for Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka has achieved notable success in primary education, with a focus on teacher training, curriculum reform, and inclusive education. The country consistently ranks higher in education quality. Sri Lanka's emphasis on professional development for teachers and student-centred teaching practices has led to improved learning outcomes.
To elevate the quality of primary education, Bangladesh must implement comprehensive reforms in teacher training, curriculum development, classroom infrastructure, and assessment methods. Learning from the successes of countries like Finland, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, Bangladesh can create a more inclusive, student-centred education system capable of preparing children for the 21st century. Investing in education and implementing thoughtful reforms is crucial for the nation's future, as the foundation of any prosperous society lies in the education of its children.
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