Shortage of Teachers in Secondary Schools for Mathematics and Science Subjects

*Summary: The government is facing a shortage of 60,000 teachers for mathematics and science subjects in secondary schools. While considering the appointment of diploma engineers as teachers, experts believe that employing university graduates in science subjects would be a wiser choice.*


Summary: The government is facing a shortage of 60,000 teachers for mathematics and science subjects in secondary schools. While considering the appointment of diploma engineers as teachers, experts believe that employing university graduates in science subjects would be a wiser choice.

The education minister recently highlighted a concerning issue at a program organized by the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh in Dhaka. The shortage of 60,000 teachers for mathematics and science subjects in secondary schools is alarming. This shortage did not happen overnight, and the government's inaction in appointing teachers to fill these positions is worrying for the improvement of science education.

According to the Bangladesh Education Statistics 2022, there are 18,907 secondary schools in Bangladesh, with only 3% of them being public institutions. With such a vast number of institutions, the shortage of 60,000 teachers for mathematics and science subjects paints a bleak picture of the state of science education in secondary schools. It is crucial for the government to act promptly and appoint teachers without further delay.

The minister's proposal to appoint diploma engineers as teachers for mathematics and science subjects has raised concerns among education experts. While this move may seem like a quick fix, it overlooks the pool of university graduates in mathematics and science subjects who are currently unemployed. Utilizing university graduates with bachelor's and master's degrees in science subjects would be a more logical approach.

Experts argue that diploma engineers may not have the necessary understanding of the new curriculum, and their lack of teaching experience could exacerbate existing problems in teacher training. Additionally, diploma engineering degrees do not hold the same weight as regular bachelor's and master's degrees in science subjects. The government's consideration to upgrade diploma engineering degrees to equate them with bachelor's degrees without proper training could lead to further complications.

In light of these challenges, it is essential for the government to prioritize the quality of science education in secondary schools. Rather than opting for a quick fix, the government should consider opening teaching positions to university science graduates. Upgrading the status of diploma engineering degrees solely to address the teacher shortage may not be the most effective solution in the long run. It is time to focus on sustainable measures that will enhance the quality of education for students in Bangladesh.

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Fateh Muhammad

Hey, I'm Fateh Muhammad, a Lahore local with a passion for arts and politics. My journey led me through the halls of the National College of Arts, where I delved into the intricacies of both disciplines. Now calling Lahore home, I'm here to share my insights and perspectives on the dynamic intersection of art and politics. Let's embark on this enlightening journey together! Connect With Me .