Professor Dr Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar, adviser to the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, urged teachers to switch careers if they are unhappy with their salaries.
He said that teaching should not be judged by financial gain, as respect in society depends on dedication.
"The government has financial initiatives for teachers, but if this profession doesn’t suit you, consider another career," he said while speaking at a discussion in Chittagong on Sunday.
The adviser added that all private schools are being brought under registration, with textbooks withheld from unregistered ones.
He further questioned why reputed schools see fierce competition while government primary schools do not. "People assume education is lacking in these schools. Changing this perception requires action.”
Dr Poddar added that while qualified individuals are joining and receiving training, classroom results remain lacking. "Are they here just due to job shortages? There’s dissatisfaction over salaries that must be addressed.”
He criticized the lack of career growth and said: "Many assistant teachers retire in the same role. Promotions and salary increases must happen. The previous government gave primary teachers second-class status but didn’t upgrade their pay scale."
He urged teachers to stay committed. "Neglecting duties over dissatisfaction helps no one. A primary teacher’s role is crucial in shaping a child’s future.”
