State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj has said the government is working to develop a learning-outcome-based and children-friendly education system for the new 2028 curriculum, considering the age, capabilities, and learning needs of students.
In a recent interview with BSS, he discussed in detail the government's future action plans for the primary education sector, including ensuring the quality of primary education, expanding the nationwide mid-day meal programme, and integrating technology into the classroom.
Regarding the development of the primary education curriculum, Bobby Hajjaj said the government has begun the process of formulating a refined and improved curriculum, aligned with the age, capabilities, and learning needs of students.
The National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) has been entrusted with this task, he said.
The state minister said the new curriculum focuses on eliminating disparities in instructional hours across different schools, while also making teaching methods and learning materials for each subject more scientific, accessible and age-appropriate.
The government is working to create a joyful classroom environment where students can learn through play, he added.
By incorporating educational toys alongside textbooks, he said, teachers will be able to facilitate learning in a more accessible and engaging manner.
Also, he said, special emphasis is being placed on enhancing proficiency in Bangla, Mathematics, and English, as well as on the use of digital content and practical, hands-on learning activities.
There are also plans to encourage student participation in mathematics and science olympiads, as well as in cultural activities, he continued.
Bobby Hajjaj highlighted the "Mid-Day Meal" programme as a key government priority, aimed at maintaining student attendance and ensuring nutritional security.
He said the programme is currently ongoing successfully in 151 upazilas across the country.
A new Development Project Proforma (DPP) is being drafted to expand the programme to the remaining upazilas, he said, expressing optimism that by 2027, it will be possible to provide nutritious mid-day meals to every child in all government primary schools across the country.
About food quality and transparency in distribution, Bobby Hajjaj said the receipt and distribution of meals are being strictly supervised by 'mothers' committees', groups formed by the students' mothers.
Besides, a "zero-tolerance" policy is being implemented through regular monitoring at field level.
Referring to "One Teacher, One Tab" and "Smart Classroom" initiatives, the state minister said this is not merely a project for distributing devices.
In collaboration with major global technology firms, including Google, the government plans to develop a comprehensive digital ecosystem for classrooms in government primary schools, with tablets provided to teachers serving as the primary connecting link, he said.
He said this will function as part of an integrated central network, enabling real-time monitoring to identify whether a class is struggling to complete the syllabus or if students are facing difficulties in understanding specific topics.
In addition, the state minister said, for primary schools in remote areas lacking electricity, an initiative has been launched, in coordination with the Power Division, to install solar panels and ensure internet bandwidth.
The government is firmly committed to enhancing the quality of primary education through regular teacher training, Bobby Hajjaj said, adding: "The development of primary education extends beyond merely constructing school buildings or ensuring student attendance, while the most critical factor is whether every child attending school is truly learning."
Regarding the development of primary education, the state minister noted that to implement the desired reforms, a coordinated approach must be taken prioritising five key areas: curriculum, teachers, monitoring, infrastructure, and technology.
He explained that all aspects of primary education are closely interconnected.
"Achieving the desired success is not possible if one area is developed while others are neglected. So, comprehensive reform initiatives must be advanced based on ground-level realities and the input of relevant stakeholders," Bobby Hajjaj said.
Addressing the infrastructure of primary schools, said development should not be limited to the construction of buildings alone.
Classrooms, furniture, sanitation facilities, and access to safe drinking water must be tailored to the needs of children, he said.
Beyond ensuring a safe and children-friendly learning environment, infrastructure must be designed with consideration for the specific geographical realities of different regions, he said.
The state minister said in accordance with the specific directives of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government is putting emphasis on ensuring educational opportunities for every child in the country, fostering moral values, and equipping students with the skills necessary for their future careers.