Online and offline classes will begin in capable educational institutions in the capital from Sunday, according to Professor BM Abdul Hannan, director general of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education.
A directive in this regard will be issued by the Ministry of Education.
Earlier, the Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon announced a pilot initiative to run classes in a blended format—three days online and three days offline—in selected secondary-level schools in Dhaka.
At a press conference on Thursday, the minister said online classes will be held on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday, while students will attend in-person classes on Saturday, Monday, and Wednesday.
The decision was taken amid the global energy crisis, with the aim of reducing pressure on transport and ensuring continuity in education. The announcement was made at a press briefing held at the International Mother Language Institute in Segunbagicha.
The minister explained that teachers will conduct online classes from school premises, and the plan will initially be implemented as a pilot project. He emphasized that participation is not mandatory and will mainly apply to large, well-equipped schools capable of adopting blended education.
He also mentioned that incentives, such as tax-free vehicle facilities, are being considered to support institutions adopting the system.
Responding to whether the system will be introduced nationwide, the minister said it will initially be limited to selected schools in Dhaka where traffic congestion is a major issue, particularly institutions where most students commute by private vehicles. Expansion across the country will depend on preparedness and further evaluation.
Education Secretary Abdul Khalek said the initiative will target specific reputed schools in the capital where students typically travel by car.
Teachers from less-resourced schools raised concerns about limited access to smartphones and internet connectivity among students. In response, the minister clarified that such institutions are not being included in the pilot and will continue regular in-person classes.
For other schools, the existing schedule will remain unchanged, with classes continuing as usual.
Regarding English medium institutions and upcoming O-Level and A-Level examinations, the minister said discussions have been held with stakeholders.
A separate decision regarding primary schools and their potential inclusion in online classes will be made later.