The primary education system in Bangladesh is the foundational stage of formal education in the country, aiming to provide basic literacy, numeracy, and life skills to children.
1. Structure and Duration
Grades: 1 to 5 (Classes 1–5)
Age Group: 6 to 10 years old
Type: Compulsory and free for all children
Governing Body: Ministry of Primary and Mass Education (MoPME) & Directorate of Primary Education (DPE)
2. Curriculum
The curriculum is designed by the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) and includes:
Bangla (Language & Literature)
English
Mathematics
Science
Social Science (Bangladesh and Global Studies)
Religion (Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity - based on student’s faith)
Arts & Crafts
Physical Education
Moral and Ethical Education
ICT (Information and Communication Technology) - recently introduced
3. Types of Primary Schools
Government Primary Schools – Largest in number; education is free.
Private Primary Schools – Some follow the national curriculum, while others offer different curricula.
NGO-run Schools – Focus on underprivileged children.
Madrasa (Ebtedayee) Schools – Provide religious and general education.
English Medium Schools – Follow international curricula (e.g., Cambridge, Edexcel).
Kindergarten Schools – Private schools offering pre-primary and primary education with a different approach.
4. Examination & Assessment
Annual Examinations: Conducted at each grade level.
Primary Education Completion Examination (PECE) (Previously held for Grade 5) – This was a nationwide exam but has recently been restructured.
Continuous Assessment (CA) – Implemented to reduce exam pressure and encourage interactive learning.
5. Government Initiatives
Free Education & Books: Every student in government schools receives free textbooks.
Midday Meal Program (Pilot Basis): Aiming to improve student nutrition and attendance.
Stipend Program: Financial support for students from low-income families.
Digital Classrooms & ICT Integration: Gradually being introduced to enhance learning.
6. Challenges in the Primary Education System
Dropout Rates: Though improving, some children leave school due to poverty.
Quality of Education: Teacher shortages and training issues.
Infrastructure: Rural schools often lack proper facilities.
Large Class Sizes: Affects individual attention to students.
7. Future Developments
New Curriculum (2023 Reform): A competency-based curriculum emphasizing skills over memorization.
Use of Technology: Digitalization of learning materials.
More Inclusive Education: Efforts to integrate special needs students.
The primary education system in Bangladesh plays a crucial role in ensuring literacy and foundational learning, with continuous efforts to improve quality and accessibility.
