Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon on Saturday emphasised the need to move beyond traditional education focused solely on achieving GPA-5 and urged the creation of students who are developed as world-class citizens.
“Our primary goal is to transform the conventional education system into a modern and scientific one, enabling students to compete on an international level,” he said.
The minister made these remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration of the ‘China-Bangladesh Education Cooperation Forum-2026’ held at the International Mother Language Institute in Dhaka.
Organised by the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka and managed by the China-Bangladesh Education and Cultural Exchange Association, the event saw significant discussions on improving educational ties between the two countries.
Milon pointed out the limitations of the current education system, saying, “We lack the necessary coordination and collaboration between industry and universities. This gap must be addressed. Our aim is to turn our vast manpower into skilled human resources who are ready to face employment challenges.”
He further acknowledged that while quality education has not yet reached its desired goal, the current government is committed to making necessary improvements to achieve it.
“We cannot spend an entire year preparing for exams at the end. Teachers must ensure continuous learning and proper evaluation in the classroom every day,” Milon stated.
The minister also highlighted China’s education system as an excellent opportunity for higher studies, noting that it is both advanced and affordable. He mentioned that approximately 16,000 Bangladeshi students are successfully pursuing education in China.
Milon stressed that to tackle globalisation challenges, the government should make learning a ‘third language’ mandatory. He particularly encouraged students to learn Chinese, which he believes will open up immense opportunities in both the international labour market and higher education.
To improve the quality of education, Milon mentioned that the government is already revising the curriculum and academic calendar. Initiatives are also underway to enhance the skills of teachers through educational and technical training programmes with China.
The event was presided over by Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, with Prime Minister’s Education Adviser Mahdi Amin serving as a special guest.
Also speaking were Secretary of Secondary and Higher Education Division Abdul Khaleque, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Professor Mamun Ahmed, BUET Vice-Chancellor Professor ABM Badruzzaman, and Director General of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education Professor Khan Moinuddin Al Mahmud Sohel.
Senior education officials, eminent educationists, and representatives from universities in both China and Bangladesh were also present at the event.
