State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj has declared that the country’s education system will be restructured to ensure students emerge as skilled, ethical, and employable citizens rather than mere degree holders.
Emphasising a departure from certificate-reliant education, he mentioned that the government’s priority is now on skills, values, and learning that aligns with real-world professional requirements.
Bobby Hajjaj made these remarks as the chief guest during the freshman orientation programme for 2025-2026 academic session of Bachelor (Honours) 1st year students at Tejgaon College in Dhaka on Sunday.
Addressing the gathering, he highlighted concerning data from the World Bank, which indicates that the educational proficiency of an average HSC student in Bangladesh is often equivalent to that of a sixth-grade student in Singapore.
Describing this reality as “deeply alarming,” he said the government’s primary objective is no longer just passing examinations, but ensuring genuine learning, skill acquisition, and the attainment of international educational standards.
Bobby Hajjaj further noted that the quality of education has historically suffered due to prolonged corruption, mismanagement, and a lack of strategic planning. Consequently, many students remain deprived of employment opportunities despite obtaining degrees.
He affirmed that the current government is actively working to implement necessary reforms to transform this situation.
The state minister pointed out that every year, a vast number of students graduate in subjects where employment prospects are relatively low. He argued that expanding time-befitting, career-oriented, and skill-centric educational programmes is now a necessity.
He stressed the importance of moral education, stating that producing citizens with strong values, honesty, and a sense of responsibility is vital for building a developed nation. The state minister assured that these elements would receive greater emphasis within the education system.
The ceremony was presided over by Tejgaon College Principal Professor Shamima Yesmin, National University Vice-Chancellor Professor ASM Amanullah, College Governing Body Chairman Md Mokhles Ur Rahman, along with faculty members and newly enrolled students, were present as special guests.
