C T Online Desk: The government is considering running the country’s education system through a blended approach, combining online and offline classes, in light of the ongoing energy situation.
“Policy-level discussions on the blended approach are underway, and a proposal is expected to be presented at the upcoming Cabinet meeting,” Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon told reporters after meeting Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat on Tuesday (31 March).
The education minister explained that recent disruptions in the academic calendar—caused by Ramadan holidays, various protests, and other events—have affected classroom teaching. To make up for the loss, the government is considering running classes six days a week instead of five. In addition, some classes may be conducted virtually, with greater emphasis on online education.
Citing a recent survey, Milon said about 55 percent of students and parents support partial online learning. However, he noted that fully online education could lead to social isolation among students—a factor the government is carefully considering.
He added that, following the Prime Minister’s directives, officials are working on the plan, and a detailed discussion will take place at Thursday’s Cabinet meeting, where a final decision is likely to be made.
While the blended system would initially focus on schools, discussions are ongoing about whether it could also apply to colleges, though university-level arrangements may differ.
The minister also highlighted alternative measures to address urban traffic congestion, energy shortages, and the impact of international developments. Proposed initiatives include dedicated bus services for students, electric buses, metro transport, and solar-powered transport systems.
