Student academic activities from primary to tertiary level are on the verge of collapse due to prolonged closure of educational institutions amid coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Holidays have been extended in educational institutions of the country in several phases as there is no sign of the ferocity of the virus declining.
Considering the overall safety of the students, the Ministry of Education has decided to extend the leave of all educational institutions in the country until August 6.
Although the government introduced online classes through Sangshad Television for primary and secondary students to recover the loss of study, it has had little impact in reality, sources said.
In the current context, Educationalist Emdadul Haque told Bangladesh Post, “It has become urgent to take a wide range of online classes in all educational institutions. While it is relatively easy to teach a number of humanities and commerce subjects online, it is almost impossible to teach science subjects. Because, laboratory and practical work is directly related to science subjects.”
“At the same time we have to remember that many students in different parts of the country do not have the opportunity and ability to use digital methods,” said Emdadul Haque, also a professor at University of Chattogram.
“Some educational institutions may try to start new businesses in the name of online education activities. These aspects also need special attention,” he added.
About TV education, President of Guardian Unity Forum (Ovivabok Oikkyo Forum) Ziaul Kabir Dulu, said, “The culture of attending classes through television in our country is not yet created. Many people do not have television at home. On the other hand, Sangshad Television cannot be watched without a cable connection. This facility is not available in all areas of the country. How do they watch TV then?”
Hasan Azizul Haque, a renowned novelist of the subcontinent said, “Education is not a ladder to climb. Education is a light that spreads all around, from where human values are awakened. However, that education is far away today. At least the Coronavirus situation has taught us to understand that the education system should be streamlined.”
“Over time, the education system has changed. The type of education, the content also changed. But from common sense it seems that the quality of education has declined. No one can be blamed for this alone. The overall system has deteriorated,” the educationist said.
“I think the country needs to reduce spending elsewhere and increase spending on education. It is possible to deal with any disaster if quality education is available to people of all walks of life,” he added.
Professor of Institute of Education and Research (IER) of Dhaka University Dr Mohammad Ali Zinnah told Bangladesh Post, “It is not possible to take examinations without completing the course. Though some private universities are offering online classes, it is not practical in public universities. Most of the public university students are not familiar with online classes, or they do not have this opportunity. “
“It should be kept in mind that online education cannot be an alternative to formal education that has been going on in our country for eras. Therefore, in making a decision in this regard, the reality must be taken into special consideration,” he added.
On March 16, the government decided to keep all the educational institutions closed from March 17 aiming to prevent the spread of the virus. No formal classes have been held since that day.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh on Wednesday (June 17) reported 4,008 new coronavirus cases in the span of 24 hours, raising the number of total confirmed cases to 98,489, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
The deadly virus claimed 43 more lives during those 24 hours, taking the death toll in the country to 1305.