Bangladesh taking the bold step to design a new school curriculum was a step in the right direction given the stagnation of our education sector, and despite the early struggles, deserves patience from the nation.

However, the identification of some immediate challenges by education experts - the need for skill-oriented class teachers aligned with the new curriculum and the timely printing of textbooks - should not be dismissed.

There is no question that all of the updates to our curricula will mean nothing if we do not have qualified teachers to impart that curricula to the students. With all of the technology that is becoming a regular feature for education, and the different modalities of imparting education, it is imperative that our teachers, much like our students, are also aligned with the needs of the 21st century, and are not teaching in an archaic manner.

Simultaneously, for students to excel from the get go, there ought not to be any delays in the dissemination of books. Such a delay, beyond inconveniencing students, also starts them off on the wrong foot, and it is important to maintain motivation so that all students are able to put their best foot forward during the academic year.

Experts also voiced concerns about the lack of specialization in the new curricula and voiced fears about the lack of science. However, a holistic approach that integrates humanities, arts, and vocational skills is essential to nurture well-rounded individuals capable of navigating the complexities of the modern world.

Bangladesh will not get to where it wants to go without its education improving significantly. To that end, remaining pro-active and avoiding stagnation to future-proof today’s students is the best way for us to reach our goals. 

(This article was first published by Dhaka Tribune, Bangladesh).