A new UN policy brief tells us that education as a whole has suffered, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, what is probably the greatest disruption in history. The potential ramifications of this disruption in Bangladesh are enormous, and we must be realistic about them if we are to confront and combat these challenges.
First of all, we must acknowledge that during the pandemic, physical classrooms are hazardous. While young children in general are not considered the most at-risk group, there is always the possibility of them becoming carriers, which could be disastrous for all others. Furthermore, it is almost impossible to maintain social distancing among children, particularly for the youngest age-groups, where close attention and hands-on education plays a large role.
Here we must evolve with the times. There is simply no choice. Parents should step up to facilitate the process of distant learning, and schools should revise and update not only their curricula, but the method of transmitting knowledge.
Education is always a process in flux, with new models of learning overturning previous ones. Over time we have seen technology play a greater and greater role in learning. Online resources have made it possible to access materials that were once only available by physically going to certain locations, but that is no longer the case.
It is important now to understand that while physical classes may need to stay halted, education need not stop. Stronger communication and ties between parents and teachers may be needed, but what we must ensure is that young minds in their formative stages continue to learn and grow, so that some day they may become enlightened and productive citizens.
