Opposition leader Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has called for the inclusion of budget allocations for Qawmi madrasa education in the proposed national budget for the 2026–27 fiscal year. Speaking on the 18th day of the budget session of the 13th National Parliament, he also demanded allocations for ibtedayi madrasas and all eligible non-MPO private educational institutions to be brought under the MPO system.

During the session, presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, Dr. Rahman noted that Qawmi institutions fear losing their educational independence if they accept government funding. He urged the government to consult with the central Qawmi body, Al-Haiatul Ulya Lil-Jamiatil Qawmia Bangladesh, to ensure that any support respects their autonomy. He further emphasized the need for a neutral committee to assess and approve MPO inclusion based on merit, avoiding political bias.

Dr. Rahman added that while private education may serve the wealthy, ensuring quality public education for ordinary citizens should remain a core state responsibility.