Govt considers 3-day weekend, online classes among 8 plans; decision on Thursday
The government is also considering keeping schools open six days a week and holding classes on Saturdays to make up for learning gaps created during Ramadan and other periods.
The government is considering a set of eight measures – including a three-day weekly holiday and the introduction of online classes – to reduce electricity and fuel consumption, with a final decision expected on Thursday (2 April).
According to sources at the Cabinet Division and the Prime Minister's Office, a meeting of the Cabinet Division on Thursday will finalise which of the proposed measures will be implemented.
The initial decisions were taken at a coordination meeting held at the Secretariat today (31 March). Teachers from different educational institutions in Dhaka, officials from various education boards and senior officials of the Ministry of Education attended the meeting.
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Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon told journalists at the Secretariat that a proposal would be placed before the cabinet on Thursday, following the prime minister's directives.
The proposed measures include introducing partial online classes in schools, especially in metropolitan areas, alongside in-person classes to help reduce fuel use and traffic congestion. Officials said the move is also being considered in the context of the ongoing global energy pressure and the rising cost of fuel.
According to the minister, the government is also considering keeping schools open six days a week and holding classes on Saturdays to make up for learning gaps created during Ramadan and other periods.
Officials said factors such as the fuel crisis, traffic congestion in major cities and seasonal illnesses are being taken into account. A survey conducted among students and parents reportedly found that nearly 55% supported the idea of partial online education.
While the initial focus is on schools, discussions are also underway about applying similar arrangements at the college level, although universities may follow a separate system.
Officials said the government is also considering alternative measures for metropolitan areas, including dedicated bus services for students, electric buses and increased use of metro services to reduce fuel consumption.
