93% primary teachers to be recruited based on merits: Adviser

The government has taken a decision to appoint 93% of teachers in the primary education level, Primary and Mass Education Adviser Bidhan Ranjan Roy said today.

"There will be no dependent quota in the primary teacher's recruitment," he said while speaking at a view-exchange meeting with the officials concerned of Khulna Division at Khulna Divisional Commissioner's office today (8 December).

He also stressed the need for training of teachers before joining their duty for the development of primary education.

Bidhan said it is impossible for one to maintain the quality of education at the primary level, rather collective participation of the society is needed.

He also sought cooperation from all to achieve this goal.

Referring to the infrastructure, the adviser said beautiful schools are being built in Dhaka city corporations and surrounding areas, and 'Mid-Day Meals' will be introduced in all primary schools across the country within the next five years.

"The project is currently awaiting approval from the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC)."

In the first phase, it will be introduced in 150 upazilas of the country as the students in Cox's Bazar, Bandarban and other parts of the country are already getting 'Mid-Day Meals'.

Besides, stipends were introduced to increase the attendance of students, he said.

He said although students' names are listed for stipends at primary schools, many of them are studying in other schools.