Blended online-offline classes to begin in selected Dhaka schools: Minister
Institutions with adequate capacity will be selected for the pilot programme, he says.
Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon announced today (8 April) that blended online-offline classes will be introduced in selected Dhaka schools on a pilot basis to maintain education activities and reduce fuel use amid the ongoing energy crisis.
Speaking at a seminar at the International Mother Language Institute, the minister said the initiative will initially be limited to schools with sufficient capacity, rather than being implemented nationwide.
Under the new model, students will attend classes online on certain days and in-person on others. The approach is designed to reduce student attendance on campus, ease traffic congestion, lower fuel use, and maintain engagement with the curriculum, he added.
"Crises in world history have opened doors to new possibilities. So in the current situation, instead of halting the education system, we must move forward with new methods," Milon said.
He added that future education will rely heavily on technology and move towards being largely paperless.
The minister emphasised the role of teachers in this transition, noting that enhanced training and monitoring are essential to ensure effective online learning and maintain student focus.
The government has already undertaken several measures to conserve electricity, including fixing air conditioner temperatures, adjusting office schedules, and promoting solar power and electric vehicles.
Primary and Mass Education State Minister Bobby Hajjaj attended the seminar as a special guest, praising the education minister's long-term contributions and highlighting the government's efforts to advance the education sector under the leadership of the prime minister.
Professor B M Abdul Hannan, director general (additional charge), delivered the welcome speech at the seminar, with Secondary and Higher Education Secretary Abdul Khaleque in the chair. Primary and Mass Education Secretary Abu Taher Md Masud Rana and Technical and Madrasa Education Secretary Md Dawood Mia were also present.
