A workshop on "GE0-region Focused Reform of Primary Education in Bangladesh" was held on 25 June, 2008 at the Chambers of Commerce Hall Room, Chittagong. The workshop was organized by CODEC in collaboration with CAMPE. About 70 participants from different districts of Chittagong division especially Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) participated in the workshop. M. Habibur Rahman, Director, Education, Save the Children, USA presented the key note paper and Abul Momen, Residential Editor of The Prothom Alo moderated the session. Prof. Anupam Sen, renowned Sociologist and Vice Chancellor of Premier University was present as the Chief Guest of the workshop. The program was presided by Kamal Sengupta, Deputy Director, CODEC. Sayed-ul-Alam Kazal, Program Manager, CAMPE was present as a Special Guest. The welcome address was delivered by Munir Helal, Director, Education and Training, CODEC.

The participants identified the gaps, challenges and provided recommendations focusing reformation of primary education based on geo-regional variance, ecological and cultural diversity through group discussion.
 

 

Summary of the recommendations furnished during the workshop:

1. Mapping of education needs based on ecological differences should be collected.

2. Decentralization of education system to address the local needs.

3. Develop text books considering the ecology and local needs. Promote flexibility in terms of text books, contact hours and vacation focusing on regional context.

4. Developing school calendar considering seasonal changes; specifically mentioning the time when teacher/students need leave/vacation.

5. Change the physical infrastructure of the educational institution in the hill and Char areas.

6. While reviewing the curriculum emphasis needs to give on regional, global, ecological, historical, and cultural (dance, songs, rhymes) issues. So that the learner can feel, be proud and develop values related to their local culture.

7. Changing of structure for ensuring access to disable students.

8. Incorporate secularism and patriotism in the curriculum

9. Appoint teachers from local region and make it free from political influence.

10. Provide/appoint support staff (4th class employee) in the primary school.

11. Transfer of teachers within the region.

12. One teacher should not continue his or her work more than five years in the same school.

13. Teacher’s salary should be equivalent to the University teachers.

14. Supplementary/community groups/teacher needs to develop to fill in the gaps during the maternity leave of a female teacher.

15. Appoint/engage eminent personality in education at the local level to the School Management Committee and ensure it free from political influence.

16. Education should not be fully regionalized, rather it should be global; otherwise it may not be complete one.

17. Education budget needs to enhance at the national level.