United News of Bangladesh

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon on Tuesday issued strict directives to ensure that the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent examinations 2026 are conducted in a fair, transparent and time-appropriate manner, with zero tolerance for malpractice. The minister came up with the directives at a view-exchange meeting with the chairs of all education boards and senior officials of the Ministry of Education at the ministry’s conference room. Reviewing the overall preparations for the SSC and equivalent examinations, Milon instructed authorities concerned to re-investigate vulnerable exam centres and prepare an updated list to prevent any irregularities. Reaffirming a tough stance against question leaks and cheating, the minister said necessary laws would be enacted to prevent malpractice through digital devices. Milon also directed that thorough body searches of examinees be ensured before entering examination halls and that teachers play a proactive role in preventing cheating. “If any question paper or related content is found to be uploaded on social media or any online platform during the examination, legal action will be taken against those involved,” Milon warned. Highlighting planned reforms in the examination system, the minister said the existing structure would be overhauled to build a merit-based nation. “There will be no more scope for auto-pass. The long-standing practice of awarding average marks in practical examinations will be replaced with proper assessment based on actual performance.” He further cautioned that if any cheating materials are found even in the washrooms of examination centres, the authorities of the respective centres will be held accountable. “To strengthen anti-cheating efforts, motivational meetings will be organised across districts nationwide.” The minister also outlined a plan to establish Zila School in districts where none currently exist, saying these institutions will follow a higher secondary school model, offering education from Class I to Class XII to ensure a more integrated and robust education system. State Minister Bobby Hajjaj was present at the meeting and provided necessary guidance to ensure that the SSC and equivalent examinations are completed in a fair, transparent and credible manner, urging all concerned to carry out their responsibilities with sincerity. Although the SSC examinations are usually held in February each year, this year’s exams have been deferred by two months due to the 13th national parliamentary election and the holy month of Ramadan. The written examinations will begin on April 21 and conclude on May 20, while practical exams will be held between June 7 and June 14.

For the first time, 28 students of the Faculty of Science at Comilla University (CU) were awarded the prestigious Dean’s Award on Tuesday. The award was conferred on students from five departments who successfully completed their undergraduate degrees under the Dean’s Award guidelines. The ceremony was held at 11 a.m. in the faculty hall. The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Md. Haidar Ali, attended as the chief guest. He said, "A university develops based on the quality of its students. In this year’s CU admission test, 150 students competed for a single seat, and among the top 300 in the ‘A’ unit merit list, 250 were admitted. Talented students are joining, ragging has decreased, and I hope Comilla University will become a top university within five years." He added, "The students of this university are like gold. Though raw, gold shines when polished. You should reflect your talent through your words and actions and become good human beings." Comilla University hosts Youth Festival 2025

Students of Islamic University (IU) staged a massive protest march demanding exemplary punishment for recent incidents of rape and violence against women across the country, including the heinous rape and murder of Amena Begum in Narsingdi. The demonstration began on Friday (February 27) after Jummah prayers from the university's central mosque. The procession paraded through key roads of the campus before concluding with a brief rally at the main entrance. During the march, agitated students chanted various slogans, including "No place for rapists in my Golden Bengal," "What is the administration doing when my sister is raped?", "We will skin the rapists," and "Abu Sayed, Mugdho, the war is not over." Addressing the protest, IU student Rahat Abdullah said, "It is shameful for the nation that we have to take to the streets to demand justice for a rape that occurred fifteen days ago. We have seen that the rapist has the backing of a political party. We want to know if that political party has emerged as the protector of rapists. If they have, the people will show them a red card." Zakaria Hossain, Organizing Secretary of IU Chhatra Shibir, heavily criticized the current administration and the prevailing political culture. "It is extremely shameful for this nation and post-24 Bangladesh that students and the public have to take to the streets for justice against heinous crimes like rape. A certain faction, right after coming to power, has started committing the same acts of rape and torture that fascist Hasina's forces did towards the end of her regime. Rein in those who are committing these acts using your name and power. Otherwise, the students and the masses of post-24 Bangladesh will rein you in," he warned. He also said, "While rape, murder, and harassment are being carried out using political identities, some people are busy heating up Facebook over an Indian star's wedding." He further stated: "The broker media constantly broadcasts trivial details like what the Prime Minister's daughter is doing or the Prime Minister walking from the secretariat. However, updates on rapes and murders are entirely missing from these outlets. Until the election, they labeled various incidents as 'mob' violence, yet the mobbing and ousting of the Bangladesh Bank Governor was somehow portrayed as a legitimate protest. The sycophancy these broker media outlets are displaying under this government is a hundred times worse than what they did during Hasina's regime."

Hamidur Rahman Hamid, Member of Parliament (MP) for Dhaka-7 constituency, has said that necessary steps will be taken to resolve the existing legal complications in order to recover the halls of Jagannath University that are currently under illegal occupation. He stated that efforts to reclaim the old halls will continue with the government’s support and effective initiatives will be undertaken in coordination with all concerned parties. He made these remarks as the chief guest at an Iftar and doa mahfil organized by the Jagannath University Teachers’ Association on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. The event was held on Thursday (February 26) at Star Hotel & Restaurant. Speaking as a special guest, Jagannath University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim said that the chief guest of the program is a former student of the university, which is a matter of pride for the university family. He expressed hope that as a Member of Parliament, he would be able to play a far-reaching role in the development of the university. He also mentioned that the MP could play an effective role in amending certain inconsistencies in the Jagannath University Act. University Treasurer Professor Dr. Sabina Sharmin said that organizing Iftar enhances harmony and mutual understanding within the university family. She expressed her expectation that the Teachers’ Association would work for the overall welfare of the university as a supportive partner of the administration. In his presidential speech, President of the Teachers’ Association Professor Dr. Md. Roich Uddin said that unity within the university family is paramount. He expressed optimism that during the tenure of the current government, the university would receive greater facilities and opportunities. He also hoped that under the leadership of the current MP, existing legal complications would be resolved and the illegally occupied halls would be successfully recovered. Among others present at the event were the General Secretary of the Teachers’ Association Professor Dr. Imranul Haque, Treasurer Professor Dr. Mohammad Nasir Uddin, deans of various faculties, directors of institutes, department chairpersons and teachers, the registrar, controller of examinations, hall provosts, the proctor, directors of different offices, JnUCSU representatives, journalists, leaders of various student organizations, and other concerned members of the university community.

The results of the Junior Scholarship Examination were published on Wednesday, with a total of 46,200 students selected under two categories. Of them, 14,700 students secured scholarships in the talent pool category while 31,500 were awarded general scholarships. The results of the examination held after a gap of 17 years were announced at 1:30pm on Wednesday. Education Minister Dr. ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon formally announced the results at a function held at the conference room of the Secondary and Higher Education Division of the Education Ministry. State Minister for Education Bobby Hajjaj was present at the event. According to the published results, a total of 3,15,160 students participated in the Junior Scholarship Examination under nine general education boards across the country. Under Dhaka Education Board, 3,635 students received talent pool scholarships and 7,790 received general scholarships while 967 students secured talent pool scholarships and 2,073 received general scholarships under Mymensingh Education Board. Besides, Rajshahi Education Board awarded 1,926 talent pool and 4,128 general scholarships while Cumilla Education Board awarded 1,677 talent pool and 3,593 general scholarships. A total of 948 students received talent pool scholarships and 2,030 received general scholarships under Sylhet Education Board and Barishal Education Board awarded 873 talent pool and 1,871 general scholarships. The Jashore Education Board awarded 1,662 talent pool and 3,561 general scholarships while the Chattogram Education Board awarded 1,210 talent pool and 2,593 general scholarships. 1,802 students secured talent pool scholarships and 3,861 received general scholarships under Dinajpur Education Board. Results can be accessed through the website of the Directorate of Primary Education by clicking on the ‘Scholarship Result’ option and entering the roll number and year (2026). Students can also obtain their results via SMS by typing the board name, roll number and year and sending the message to 16222. Students selected under the talent pool category will receive Tk 450 per month while those under the general category will receive Tk 300 per month. The scholarships will continue for two years (Classes IX and X) along with a one-time annual grant. The examinations were held from December 28 to 30 last year and on January 6 this year at 611 centres under nine general education boards across the country.

University Grants Commission (UGC) member Prof. Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan, has identified education, health, and agriculture as the primary drivers of national security, stressing that investment in these sectors is essential for human security. Speaking as the chief guest at a workshop on strengthening veterinary science education at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) on Tuesday, he noted that global powers like the USA and China treat education as a core component of national security, a vision Bangladesh must also adopt. Addressing the selection process for the Higher Education Acceleration and Transformation (HEAT) project, Professor Khan highlighted that the grant was awarded through a highly competitive and transparent process. He asserted that in the post-August 5 era, the UGC has moved away from historically opaque practices to a purely merit-based selection system, countering common allegations of corruption in project allocations. He also expressed concern over Bangladesh’s low GDP allocation for education compared to other South Asian nations, stating that international university rankings cannot improve without addressing this investment deficit. BAU Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. K. Fazlul Haque Bhuiyan, attending as the chief patron, emphasized that while modern technology is vital, the sincerity and profound knowledge of teachers remain the heart of quality education. The workshop, presided over by Veterinary Faculty Dean Prof. Md. Bahanur Rahman, also featured a keynote by Sub-Project Manager Prof. Mohammad Eliusur Rahman Bhuiyan. He outlined plans to modernize classrooms, establish high-tech research infrastructure, and digitize library facilities to align veterinary training with global technological standards and produce skilled professionals. The event was attended by BAU's Director of Planning and Development Prof. Mohammad Musharraf Uddin Bhuiyan, HEAT Project Regional Coordinator Md. Monabberur Rashid and faculty members from various departments. The project, funded by the HEAT-Academic Transformation Fund (ATF), aims to create a technology-driven environment to enhance research and hands-on training within the veterinary faculty.

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon on Sunday said teachers would no longer need to take to the streets to realise their legitimate demands, as the government is giving the highest priority to the education sector and will implement justified claims of teachers and employees in phases. Speaking at a views-exchange meeting with the Teachers-Employees Unity Council at the conference room of the Ministry of Education, the minister said although there are certain budgetary constraints, other demands of teachers will be placed before the Prime Minister. “As many issues could not be incorporated into the new budget, it is not possible to implement all demands immediately. However, the government is sincere in this regard,” he said. Referring to allegations raised against officials and employees of the ministry, Milon said the complaints would be reviewed and resolved gradually. “Discussions are also underway regarding school managing committees and governing bodies.” “The issue of not allowing one individual to hold responsibilities in multiple institutions will be considered at the managing committee level,” the minister said. On the Non-Government Teachers’ Registration and Certification Authority (NTRCA), Milon said recent changes in the recruitment system would be reviewed and necessary decisions taken accordingly.  “We will assess where corrections are needed. The government is firm in its position – we neither engage in corruption nor allow it. Transparency and accountability will be ensured in the education sector,” he said. The minister also said meetings would soon be held to decide on financial matters, including retirement benefits and welfare trust issues. “Education is receiving the highest importance at the policy-making level of the current government. Education-related issues also received priority at the recent cabinet meeting.” State Minister for Education Bobby Hajjaj said the written demands submitted by teachers have been taken seriously. “Among the various demands, standing issues have been identified and initiatives taken for resolution. We do not want to take abrupt decisions. We seek long-term solutions through consultation so that teachers do not have to return to agitation over the same demands five or seven years later.” Highlighting teachers’ dignity, Hajjaj said proper evaluation of their responsibilities in classrooms would be ensured and the government is aware of the expectations of the teaching community. Chairman of the Teachers-Employees Unity Council and Cumilla-2 MP Selim Bhuiyan, along with other teacher leaders, were present at the meeting.

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor (VC) Prof Niaz Ahmed Khan resigned on Sunday. He submitted his resignation letter to Education Minister Dr A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon at the Ministry of Education in the morning. Dr Niaz Ahmed also submitted an application to the President seeking to return to his original post as a Grade-1 Professor of Department of Development Studies. During the meeting, the Education Minister sought his views on the university’s current and future challenges and ways to strengthen education and research. Dr Khan briefed him on academic and research activities, campus security, and future plans, reaffirming his commitment to contribute to Dhaka University and the broader education sector. The Education Minister thanked Dr Niaz Ahmed for his notable contributions to the university’s development during a critical period and extended best wishes. Dr Khan announced his intention to resign during a special press conference on February 10, two days before the national election.

Students of Maulana Bhashani Hall at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) have taken a unique initiative to mark Amar Ekushey and International Mother Language Day by producing a special documentary titled 'One Hall, One Heart, One Vision'. The documentary, created by students of the 2024-25 academic session, was premiered at the residential hall during the early hours of Saturday (February 21). The production has since garnered significant appreciation across social media platforms. The documentary meticulously chronicles the history of the Language Movement, tracing its roots from the initial protests in 1948 to the supreme sacrifices of martyrs Rafiq, Salam, and Barkat on February 21, 1952, and its eventual global recognition as International Mother Language Day. The project was directed by Durjoy Mondal, a student of the 2021-22 session, with narration provided by Apu Barman. Badhon Mollik Protik, a student of the hall, stated that their primary goal was to present the authentic history of the Language Movement and Bangladesh’s cultural heritage to the new generation. The production utilized historical footage and various locations within the hall to bring the history to life. Another student, Md. Nurul Bin Hasan Antim, remarked, "Our success lies in whether our peers can learn the true history of our mother tongue through this creative endeavor. This interest in national history alongside agricultural studies is highly encouraging." While the students of Maulana Bhashani Hall traditionally organize various programs for February 21, this year’s documentary has added a new dimension to the celebrations, earning praise from both the university’s faculty and the student body.

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milan on Friday vowed to build a drug free and terror free country, after efforts to ensure an education system without cheating in exams. He said the anti-drug and anti-terror drive will begin from Kachua, just as the anti-cheating movement once started from the same area and later became a national model. The minister made the remarks while speaking to journalists during his first visit to his constituency Kachua in Chandpur after taking charge. He said Kachua will be turned into a drug free, terror free and eve-teasing free upazila in phases. Effective steps will be taken through coordination among the administration, law enforcement agencies and local representatives. “Kachua once set an example across the country as a cheating free area. We now want Kachua to become the model for a drug free and terror free Bangladesh,” he said. The minister also said there are plans to start the journey towards a corruption free society from Kachua. He said the future Bangladesh will be built under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, and all announced programmes will be implemented step by step. Everything in place for 'fair, transparent and smooth' SSC exams: Education Minister Milon ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milan was elected from Chandpur-1 seat with a large margin in the 13th national election. After taking oath, he was appointed education minister and minister for primary and mass education. Chandpur Deputy Commissioner Md Nazmul Islam Sarkar, Superintendent of Police Md Rabiul Hasan and other senior officials of the administration and law enforcement agencies were present.