Published: 12:59 AM, 05 August 2026
Call for Collective Reflection to Strengthen Primary Curriculum Development in Bangladesh
An effective primary education curriculum builds strong core foundations in literacy and numeracy while using a competency-based, holistic approach that supports critical thinking and practical life skills.
Government representatives, development partners, United Nations agencies, NGOs, INGOs, academia and education experts came together on 29 July 2026 at a policy seminar titled "Primary Curriculum Development in Bangladesh: Reflecting on the Reform Journey Together" to reflect on Bangladesh's curriculum reform journey and identify practical recommendations for strengthening future primary curriculum development. Organized by Plan International Bangladesh, the seminar created a platform for evidence-based dialogue, bringing together diverse stakeholders to exchange perspectives, share lessons learned, and collectively explore ways to build a more inclusive, relevant and future-ready primary education system for every child.
The event was graced by Bobby Hajjaj, State Minister, Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, as the Chief Guest. The program featured a presentation by Plan International Bangladesh, "Shaping Quality Primary Education: Journey Towards High-Quality Curriculum Resources for Every Child," followed by an expert panel discussion and an interactive dialogue. The discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that curriculum reform is evidence-based, builds on existing strengths, and responds to children's changing learning needs. Participants emphasized the need for a curriculum that nurtures foundational learning, critical thinking, creativity, communication and future-ready competencies, while remaining inclusive of children from diverse backgrounds, including those living in climate-vulnerable and emergency-affected communities.
Speaking at the seminar, Bobby Hajjaj, State Minister, Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, said:
"Primary education is the foundation of every child's future. As society continues to evolve, the curriculum must remain relevant, student-centered and responsive to children's changing needs. Beyond academic knowledge, it should equip children with critical thinking, life skills and practical competencies while promoting inclusive schools where learning, sports and culture go hand in hand. This vision can only be realized through strong collaboration between the government, development partners and all education stakeholders."
The seminar reaffirmed that meaningful curriculum reform extends beyond curriculum design. During the panel discussion, Rasheda K. Chowdhury, Executive Director of Campaign for Popular Education (CAMPE); Syeda Sazia Zaman, Program Head and Research Lead at BRAC Institute of Educational Development (BRAC IED); Md. Abdur Rahim, Additional Director General, Directorate of Primary Education (DPE); Farid Ahmed, Director General, National Academy for Primary Education (NAPE); Mohammad Golam Kibria, Team Leader (Human Capital) and Education Adviser, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO); and Kabita Bose, Country Director of Plan International Bangladesh, reflected on the need to strengthen the entire primary education ecosystem. The panelists emphasized that meaningful curriculum reform requires strong alignment between curriculum, teacher professional development, quality learning materials, classroom practice and assessment to improve learning outcomes for every child. They also highlighted the importance of an inclusive, evidence-based and competency-driven curriculum that equips children with the knowledge, skills and values needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
The seminar concluded with a shared commitment from government representatives, development partners, UN agencies, civil society organizations and education experts to continue working together to strengthen Bangladesh's primary education system and advance quality, equitable and inclusive education for every child.
Everyone benefits from a primary educator approach. The educators feel a sense of fulfillment that they are really helping individual children. And as a parent, you have peace of mind that there is someone responsible for your child. A few words from Nelson Mandela can be quoted in this context “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Mahfuz Ul Hasib Chowdhury is a
contributor to different English
newspapers and magazines.
The writer is also a Commonwealth
Open University Fellow.
