As many as 352,197,882 textbooks were distributed free of cost among 42,619,865 primary and secondary level students across the country in the academic year 2019.
“We have distributed free textbooks among all students from primary to secondary levels,” National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) Chairman Prof Narayan Chandra Saha said.
“Like previous years, we have successfully distributed free textbooks on the first day of the current year so that the students can begin their studies smoothly,” he added.
Distribution of such a large number of free textbook among the students is a huge task for the authorities concerned, he said, adding this successful distribution of textbooks has been possible because of the good coordination and sincere effort of all concerned officials and employees.
“Teachers always play an important role in the distribution of textbooks among the students,” mentioned the NCTB Chairman.
The government distributed 35,42,90,162 textbooks among 4,37,06,895 pre-primary, primary, secondary, ebtedayee and SSC level students last year, Narayan said. “Every year, we print textbooks against the demand of students. We are now assessing demands of textbooks for next academic year.
“We are maintaining printing quality of textbooks.”
Nearly 400 presses are engaged in preparing textbooks so that we could be able to distribute textbooks in time,” he added.
The NCTB chairman said the government distributed nearly 2.61 billion textbooks for free among the pre-primary, primary, secondary, ebtedayee and SSC level students till 2018.
Distribution of free textbook started in 2010 at both primary and secondary levels, he said, adding distribution of free textbook is significantly contributing to check drop-out rate at both primary and secondary levels.
He said Bangladesh has set a rare example in the world through distribution of free textbooks among a large number of students on the first day of January.
According to education experts, Bangladesh has achieved impressive progress in the education sector as the government has implemented various affirmative programs, including distribution of free textbook.
Students are encouraged to continue their studies as they get free textbooks on the first of new year, they said, adding the government deserves special appreciation for taking such a huge initiative for all students from primary to secondary levels.
