Bangladesh’s IMED has identified slow implementation, construction flaws, weak oversight and unresolved financial irregularities in a Tk430.13 crore education infrastructure project in Kishoreganj’s haor region. The project, approved by ECNEC on January 16, 2020, is being implemented by the Education Engineering Department under the Secondary and Higher Education Division. Its deadline is June 2027. By May 2026, financial progress stood at 59.88 percent, while physical progress was 73.5 percent.

Fourteen audit objections covering Tk34.237 crore in alleged irregularities were raised between fiscal years 2020-21 and 2024-25, with none resolved. Audit observations included billing for excess piles, rods and concrete, payment for unused rods, payments before contracts, fund releases without test reports, and use of materials outside specifications. Field inspections also found cracks, uneven plaster, water leakage, inadequate roof slopes and poor finishing in several buildings.

The scheme covers 36 buildings at 25 institutions in Itna, Mithamain, Austagram and Nikli, but only 14 buildings were completed by May 2026. Many completed structures lacked furniture, laboratory equipment and ICT tools. IMED recommended resolving audit objections, correcting defects, completing remaining buildings and coordinating equipment supply with construction.