United News of Bangladesh

The authorities of Islamic University in Kushtia cancelled the certificates of the bachelor of business administration and the master's of business administration of a student of the university as an allegation of passing master's despite failing honours was proved. The decision was made at IU's 256th syndicate meeting with IU vice-chancellor Professor Shaikh Abdus Salam in the chair, said a press release issued by IU acting registrar HM Ali Hasan on Thursday. Sources said, Shamirul Islam, a student of IU finance and banking department under 2013-14 academic session, has completed his graduation and post graduation from the department in 2017 and 2018 respectively. He has collected his provisional certificates from the controller of examinations office where he was shown successful. But when he went to collect his original documents from the controller of examinations office on January 17, 2023, he came to know that he failed in a course of BBA fourth year examination. According to the university act, a student must pass in his/her honours examinations' if he/she wants to take part in MBA examinations. Later, the university administration formed a three-member probe body led by IU pro-vice-chancellor Professor M Mahbubur Rahman to look into the matter. The probe body submitted its investigation report to the university authorities. Contacted, Shamirul said that he did not know that he had failed in a course. "I was not even informed about the failure. I took out my provisional certificates of graduation and post-graduation from the controller office where I had been shown success." "My department and IU controller of examinations office could not deny their negligence," he added. IU pro-vice-chancellor Professor M Mahbubur Rahman said that they cancelled the certificates of both BBA and MBA of Shamirul as an allegation brought against him was proved. They, however, have decided to give him the opportunity to pass the honours' and masters' by re-examination on humanitarian grounds under special arrangements, he added.    

Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni said that they have incorporated interactive learning at the primary and secondary levels, where children now receive quality education through cultural expressions such as performing plays, reciting poetry, experiential learning, and active learning, among others. “Students will learn to work both individually and in groups. This will develop their soft skills, such as communication, leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving, and more, from a young age,” she said. The Education Minister made the remarks at a programme titled “Let’s Talk: Education & Culture” held at Rabindra University on May 31. Young Bangla of the Centre for Research and Information hosted the event that serves as a policy discussion and idea-sharing platform between young minds and policymakers in Bangladesh. The 46th Let's Talk, organised by Young Bangla, focused on the topic of 'Education and Culture,' with the participation of over 350 students from the Sirajganj district. The panelists for this interactive session included Dr. Dipu Moni; Anwarul Abedin Khan MP, Member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Agriculture; Professor Dr. Md. Shah Azam, Vice Chancellor of Rabindra University, Bangladesh; and A.T.D. Angel, General Secretary of Choupash Natyanchal and recipient of the Joy Bangla Youth Award 2017. Read more: Strategy being formed to turn Bangladesh into developed one: Finance Minister The youth from the Sirajganj district posed questions to the panelists on various topics, including the importance of cultural practices, the correlation between education and culture, the contemporary education system of Bangladesh, the gap between industry and academia, and the youth's contribution to culture, among others. Regarding the increase in cultural practices among students, Dipu Moni MP emphasised the importance of cultural enhancement to acquire true knowledge, as culture and education are intertwined. She shared that the education system of Bangladesh is adopting new practices to introduce students to cultural activities within the classroom through interactive learning at the primary and secondary levels. Students expressed their concerns about the gap between industry and academia, and the Minister of Education responded by stating that despite the number of educated students, there is a shortage of available qualified jobs. She suggested that only the youth can solve this problem by creating more job opportunities through entrepreneurship. Additionally, she proposed the addition of mandatory courses in Language, ICT, Soft Skills, and Entrepreneurship to every department at the tertiary level. Furthermore, new course modules and teacher training programs are being developed. Participants raised concerns about the lack of infrastructure for cultural practices and the establishment of new universities, according to a media release. Dipu Moni commented, "It is crucial for every student to have a proper campus life during their educational journey. It not only provides them with an ideal environment to study but also offers them a space to explore life and engage in cultural activities. Some of the newly established universities are enrolling students before having a proper campus. We are looking into this matter and expect that they do not continue this practice."    

Glenrich International School (GIS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), the UK’s largest music education body.  This collaboration aims to unlock a world of possibilities for GIS students, nurturing their talents and passion for the performing arts, according to a press release. ABRSM, recognized as the United Kingdom's largest music education body and one of the world's leading music exam providers, conducts over 650 thousand assessments annually in more than 90 countries.  The signing ceremony between GIS and ABRSM took place on Wednesday, at the GIS Campus.  Representatives from both institutions, including Shafaitul Islam, representative of ABRSM in Bangladesh, Ramesh Mudgal, principal of Glenrich International School, Kumkum Habiba Jahan, head of Junior School at Glenrich International School, and Jahangir Kabir, head of operations at STS Capital, were present at the occasion. Through this collaboration with ABRSM, GIS students will be mentored by ABRSM coaches in the disciplines of Piano, Guitar, and Violin.  These instructors will inspire and guide GIS students towards achieving musical excellence, creating new heights of co curricular learning opportunities in Bangladesh, according to the press release. At the core of this partnership lies the implementation of a world-class music curriculum, recommended by ABRSM, which will be taught in state-of-the-art music studios at Glenrich International School, reads the press release.  This curriculum, combined with the guidance of ABRSM's talented instructors, will empower students to “strive for excellence and unleash their full potential in the realm of harmonies.”  Upon successfully completing their courses, GIS students will have the opportunity to showcase their skills through ABRSM's internationally recognized assessment process, potentially earning prestigious certifications from the Board, the press release states. "This partnership marks a significant milestone for GIS as we endeavor to provide holistic and comprehensive education to our students, extending beyond traditional means of learning," stated Mr. Ramesh Mudgal, principal of GIS. "We are honored to collaborate with ABRSM, a highly esteemed institution that shares our vision of cultivating a deep appreciation for music. Together, we hope to foster a vibrant and nurturing musical community within our institute." "We are optimistic about this collaboration with Glenrich International School," said Shafaitul Islam, representative of ABRSM in Bangladesh. "By combining our expertise and resources with their determination to bring about a landmark transformation in the local education sector, we aim to create an enriching musical environment where students can flourish and realize their hidden potential. We firmly believe that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves access to top-quality music education."  

Bangladesh Education Expo 2023, is set to take place for the first time at the International Bangabandhu Conference Centre (BICC) in the capital on June 5.  The fair, open to all, aims to provide students seeking higher education, both locally and abroad, with a comprehensive platform to gather all necessary information under one roof.  With the participation of universities from across the country and abroad, the expo promises a myriad of opportunities, including the chance to secure scholarships up to 100 percent. Additionally, over 60 universities, polytechnic institutes, and various educational institutions will showcase their research, publications, and innovations. The day-long event will commence at 9 am and continue until 8 pm, featuring not only opening and closing ceremonies but also a series of seminars and panel discussions.  These sessions will include public lectures on subject selection for higher education, with the presence of esteemed education officials, renowned academicians, and notable celebrities. The Education Reporters Association (ERAB) is organizing this monumental education expo. Mir Mohammad Jasim, President of ERAB, stated, "ERAB is an organization comprising education reporters, officially registered with the Government of Bangladesh last year. We are hosting this expo as part of our commitment to students.”  Registration for the expo has already started, and students can sign up by visiting the official website at www.bangladesheducationexpo.com. By registering, students will be automatically entered into a lottery with various attractive prizes at stake, such as laptops, tablets, and mobile phones.  However, the organisers said the expo itself is open to all, regardless of registration status.  Currently, approximately 60,000 students have completed their registration.  

The Rajshahi University authorities have  filed multiple cases against 16 people including a Bangladesh Chhatra League leader on charge of fraud in Rajshahi University admission test 2022-23. Registrar Professor Abdus Salam filed the cases on behalf of the university authorities with Motihar and Chandrima police stations in the city. Additional Commissioner of  Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Vijay Kumar Basak confirmed this on Wednesday morning. Among them, Chhatra League leader, government BCS official, students of Rajshahi University and Dhaka University have been arrested. The accused are Hasibul Islam Shanto, deputy secretary of RU Chhatra League and joint-general secretary of Natore District Chhatra League,  Enamul Haque, student of Dhaka University’s  Islamic Studies Department, Md. Swapan Hossain, a 2018-19 academic year student of Rajshahi University’s Department of Public Administration, Sheikh Abu Hanif, Assistant Social Service Officer of Gournadi Upazila in Barishal.  Tanveer Ahmed, Kawsar Ali Vidyut, Md. Mainul Islam, Md. Abdur Rakib, Md. Israfil Hossain, Zahid Al Hasan Siam, Rupam Sarkar and Sheikh Abu Hanif. The names of the remaining four have not yet been released. Among them, Hasibul, Sheikh Abu Hanif, Enamul Haque and Swapan have been arrested. According to the case statement, Md. Israfil Hossain appeared in the exam as a proxy candidate for Zahid Al Hasan Siam in exchange of Tk 70,000. He was arrested from room 424 of Sir Jagadish Chandra Bose Academic Building of the university. Hasibul Islam Shanto hired Enamul Haque for Tk 50,000. He gave proxy on behalf of main candidate Tanveer Ahmed. Sheikh Abu Hanif was arrested Rabindranath Tagore Academic Building of the university. He appeared for the original candidate Rupam Sarkar. Regarding the arrest of the BCL leader, Faisal Ahmed Runu, general secretary of the BCL RU unit said, "We came to know about the matter sometime ago. If he is involved in this incident, organizational action will be taken against him." Professor Abdus Salam, registrar of the university said, "We have filed a case on behalf of the university administration. Now the matter will be investigated by law enforcement agencies and action will be taken." Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Additional Commissioner of Police Vijay Kumar Basak said, "We have interrogated those who were detained yesterday. According to the information given by them, we have arrested one person. But he is not the original culprit. Hopefully we will be able to arrest him soon. At the same time, those involved in the  fraud will also be arrested."      

A girl who burned all of her academic certificates on a Facebook Live in frustration at not getting a job on May 23, Mukta Sultana, has been offered a job by State Minister for Information and Communication Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak. Noticing the matter through Bianna Television, the minister contacted Mukta Sultana, 27, and requested her to come to his office. After discussing  with her, on Monday the state minister handed over an appointment letter to Mukta on behalf of the Prime Minister for the post of 'Content Development and Social Communication Officer' in the "Establishment of Secured Email for Government and Digital Literacy Center" project under the Information and Communication Technology Department. Getting the appointment letter, Mukta said, "I got my job because of the sympathy of State Minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak. I am grateful to him.” Palak said, “We are providing assistance in various ways including training from the ICT department so that the talented youth of the country do not get frustrated and can move forward with confidence. He said no educated youth will be unemployed in Bangladesh if proper education is taken.” “If you can prepare yourself by harnessing the talent of youth and the power of technology, you will not have to go after the job. Rather, it will create employment opportunities,” the state minister said. Ranjit Kumar, Executive Director of Bangladesh Computer Council and Engr. Mohammad Saiful Alam Khan, Project Director of "Establishment of Secured Email for Government and Digital Literacy Center" project, were present on the occasion.

Students of 2026 batch will appear for the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and its equivalent examinations under new curriculum, said Education Minister Dipu Moni on Monday.“The new curriculum will be implemented fully in secondary level by 2025 and the students of 2026 batch will appear for their SSC exam under the new curriculum,” she said while talking to reporters after inaugurating Smart Education Festival-2023 at the auditorium of the International Mother Language Institute.The new curriculum was introduced in Grade-I under primary level while Grades- VI and VII of secondary level in 2023 and the students of Grades VIII and IX will be enrolled under the new curriculum in 2024. The new curriculum will be introduced in Grade X in 2025, she added.“Already the evaluation has started from this year,” said Dipu. Also read: Memorisation won’t suffice to tackle future challenges: Dipu MoniThe Department of Secondary and Higher Education organized the 'Smart Education Festival' to mark the beginning of the strategy of smart education to implement the new curriculum in a bid to build a smart Bangladesh.Twenty smart education activities will be displayed in the festival with the participation of people from all walks of life in ten seminars.Deputy Minister for Education Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel was present there.  

The authorities concerned expelled a Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinee for taking home the written test portion of agricultural studies after the exam in Alamdanga upazila of Chuadanga on Sunday. Also, two teachers, who were assigned as invigilators at the Exam Hall of Alamdanga Govt. Degree College, were fired for their negligence in performing duty. Ashraful Hoque and Habibur Rahman are assistant teachers of local Kumari Union High School respectively.   The rescheduled exam for agricultural education was held on Sunday as earlier the exam was deferred due to the Cyclone Mocha. Examinee Al Amin didn’t submit his written test’s papers to the invigilators after the exam and took it home. As the count of the papers didn’t match, later the invigilators detected  Al Amin’s papers were  missing. Biplob Kumar Nath, officer-in-charge of Alamdanga police station, said they in association with Hall Super Moniruzzaman recovered the written exam’s papers from the student’s house on Sunday afternoon. Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Rony Alam Nur confirmed this incident saying that the student and the teachers were expelled on separate grounds.

The Appellate Division on Monday stayed the High Court order that had suspended the effectiveness of a notice of Dhaka University’s Bangla Department asking its female students' to keep their ears and faces visible during examinations and presentations. A three-member bench of the Appellate Division, led by Justice Md. Nuruzzaman,  passed the order. It also asked the High Court to dispose of the rule regarding the issue within two months. Barrister Belayet Hossain stood for the petitioner while Attorney General Abu Mohammad Amin Uddin represented the DU. On December 11, the Bangla Department of Dhaka University issued a notice that said that as per the decision of the Academic Committee of the Bangla Department, held on September 18, the students of the department must keep their faces and ears open during their tutorial/presentation, mid-term, final examinations and viva voce for their identification. Those who will not follow the order, action will be taken against them as per the university rules, it said. On 20 February, a writ petition was filed at the HC challenging the legality of the notice to keep all female students' ears and faces visible. Education Secretary, Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, Registrar and Chairman of Bangla Department were made respondents to the writ. The writ petition also sought issuance of a rule asking the authorities concerned to explain as to why the notice should not be declared illegal and why directives should not be given not to obstruct the Muslim female students from abiding by the religious norms. It also sought a stay order on the effectiveness of the notice issued by DU. On March 28, The High Court stayed for six months the effectiveness of the notice. Following HC order, the DU authorities filed a petition challenging the HC order.              

The first ever global meeting between the UN and education ministers from around the world aiming to explore risks and rewards of using chatbots in classrooms has announced a new roadmap to chart a safer digital path for all. According to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which hosted more than 40 ministers at an groundbreaking online meeting on Thursday,  less than 10 per cent of schools and universities follow formal guidance on using wildly popular artificial intelligence (AI) tools, like the chatbot software ChatGPT. The ministers exchanged policy approaches and plans while considering the agency’s new roadmap on education and generative AI, which can create data and content based on existing algorithms, but can also make alarming factual errors, just like humans. Stefania Giannini, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Education, said “Generative AI opens new horizons and challenges for education, but we urgently need to take action to ensure that new AI technologies are integrated into education on our terms.” “It is our duty to prioritize safety, inclusion, diversity, transparency and quality,” Stefania added. Institutions are facing numerous challenges in creating an immediate response to the sudden emergence of these powerful AI apps, according to a new UNESCO survey of more than 450 schools and universities. At the same time, governments worldwide are in the process of shaping appropriate policy responses in a rapidly evolving education landscape, while further developing or refining national strategies on AI, data protection, and other regulatory frameworks, according to UNESCO. The debate revealed other common concerns, including how to mitigate the chatbots’ inherent flaws of producing glaring errors. Ministers also addressed how best to integrate these tools into curricula, teaching methods, and exams, and adapting education systems to the disruptions which generative AI is quickly causing. Many highlighted the vital role teachers play in this new era as learning facilitators. But, teachers need guidance and training to meet these challenges, according to UNESCO. For its part, the agency will continue to steer the global dialogue with policy makers, partners, academia, and civil society, in line with its paper, AI and education: A guide for policy-makers and Recommendation on the Ethics of AI, as well as the Beijing Consensus on Artificial Intelligence and Education. UNESCO is also developing policy guidelines on the use of generative AI in education and research, as well as frameworks of AI competencies for students and teachers for classrooms. These new tools will be launched during Digital Learning Week, to be held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on 4 to 7 September, the agency said.