Schools, colleges may reopen in Feb for candidates of public exams: Education Minister

Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni, on Tuesday, ruled out the possibility of reopening educational institutions for the candidates of public examinations from February next.

In a virtual press briefing, the education minister also said that the examinations will be held as per customised syllabus.

"Educational institutions will be reopened for the candidates of public examinations from February on condition of improved situation. The classes will be held till May if the situation remains under control," she added further.

The minister also revealed that the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations of 2021 will be held in June and July or August respectively if the Covid situation returns to normalcy.

She further added that the next SSC and equivalent examinations may be taken by shortening the syllabus. She said work is underway to shorten the syllabus. Details will be announced by 15 January next.

The book distribution on 1 January every year has become a festival. However, due to the ongoing Covid situation, book festivals are not being held across the country this year.

The books will be distributed in 12 days to students in their respective schools. Students of every class will go to their educational institution 3 days to collect thier new books. On 31 December, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the book distribution program for the next academic year, the Minister added.

On March 16, the Ministry of Education issued a press release announcing the government's decision to close all educational institutions and coaching centres from March 18 to March 31, taking into consideration students' safety amid the global pandemic.

Classes have remained suspended since then, although administrative activities gradually resumed.

The Ministry has extended the closure on several occasions. Lastly, the government has extended the holiday till January 16.