State of science education

The number of examinees and students in all forms of educational systems in the country is steadily increasing. The only exception is in the area of science education. There the number is decreasing. This decrease is not a small one but really concern-raising. In the last eight years, the decrease in the number of science students has been reported to be some 31.33 per cent. This is quite a big drop. In Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations about two decades ago, the percentage of science examinees was 42.21, which dropped to 22.32 in 2010. Reports in the media did at the same time note that the percentage of science examinees was 28.13 in the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations of 1990 and the rate declined to 18.14 in 2010. But successive governments in the country have been parroting the slogan always that they were engaged in creating human resources. But one fails to see how even the stage can be set for the creation of human resources when the pursuit of science education remains so neglected. It is reported that there is a serious dearth of science teachers in government-run schools. The relevant ministry has been paying scanty attention to this void. Against this backdrop, we would suggest for taking up immediately a comprehensive programme, first of all, to set up the infrastructure for imparting science education. The required number of teachers in the public sector educational institutions should also be recruited with no further delay. Laboratories and other supports have to be provided adequately. Incentives can be created for those who would take up science courses. The present century is going to be a science and technology driven one, unlike any other time in human history. Only the nations that would put the premium on acquiring science and technology education, will survive or be successful in the very demanding and competitive environment. Policy planners in Bangladesh must come round to fully understanding this vital aspect. M Rahmatullah Azimpur Staff Quarter Dhaka