Education and Primary & Mass Education Minister Dr. A.N.M. Ehsanul Hoque Milan has announced that the government is planning to appoint retired teachers as Chairpersons of Managing Committees and Governing Bodies of schools, colleges, and madrasas.
Addressing a meeting with SSC exam center secretaries of the Dhaka region at Azimpur Government Girls’ School & College on Sunday (April 12), the Minister also staunchly defended the government’s decision to move away from the lottery-based admission system.
Empowering Retired Educators Dr. Milan suggested the formation of a dedicated commission to oversee the appointment of retired educators to institutional committees.
“If we select Managing Committee presidents from a pool of retired teachers through a formal commission, it will significantly improve the quality of our education system,” he stated, adding that while the matter is currently under process, a final decision is yet to be made.
Critique of the Lottery System Responding to widespread criticism regarding the cancellation of the admission lottery, the Minister argued that the system failed to serve its intended purpose.
Merit vs. Luck: “A lottery can never determine merit, nor can it accurately evaluate a student’s potential,” he asserted.
Corruption Allegations: Dr. Milan claimed to have information suggesting that the lottery process was not as transparent as perceived. He alleged that while many appeared to get in through “luck,” a significant number of admissions were actually secured through lobbying and favoritism.
Social Disparity: He countered the argument that the lottery reduced the gap between the rich and the poor, stating it was ineffective in addressing systemic inequality.
Focus on Quality Teaching The Minister expressed concern over the growing reliance on private tutors and coaching centers.
“What students are being taught is our top priority. Parents shouldn’t have to hire extra teachers if classroom instruction is adequate. We must break away from this coaching-dependent culture,” he said.
He also challenged parents and teachers alike, questioning why families bypass local schools for distant institutions. “There are good schools everywhere. If parents don’t trust their local school, we must ask if the teachers there are fulfilling their responsibilities.”
Institutional Presence The meeting was chaired by Professor Dr. Khandaker Ehsanul Kabir, Chairman of the Dhaka Education Board, and attended by senior officials from various education boards and the Ministry of Education. The primary focus of the gathering was to ensure the smooth conduct of the upcoming SSC and equivalent examinations.
