Published: 11:23 AM, 23 May 2026 Last Update: 11:24 AM, 23 May 2026
Book Talk on “The Learning Nation” ignites debate on curriculum reform
Reflective Teens Trust and the Global Shapers Chattogram Hub jointly hosted a Book Talk on Friday evening at Bookworm, Shahabuddin Park. The event featured Bobby Hajjaj, State Minister for Primary and Mass Education of the Government of Bangladesh, as the Chief Guest and author of the book under discussion, The Learning Nation. The session was moderated by Yusuf Munna, Executive Director of Reflective Teens Trust and Curator of the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers Initiative.
Minister Hajjaj spoke at length about the motivations behind the book and his vision for a reformed education system—one that moves beyond examination results to foster creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking among young Bangladeshis. He outlined the ministry’s plans for a new national curriculum by 2028, emphasized the need for large-scale teacher retraining, and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve school infrastructure, particularly in rural communities.
He also underscored the importance of integrating sports, culture, and experiential learning into students’ everyday lives, expressing hope that Bangladesh would cultivate a generation of empathetic, innovative, and forward-thinking leaders over the next two decades.
The formal discussion was followed by a lively question-and-answer session, during which students, educators, and young professionals engaged the Minister directly on issues ranging from teacher welfare to the quality of rural education. The event reflected the growing public appetite for open, informed, and constructive dialogue on the future of primary education in Bangladesh.
