Biometric attendance machines installed in government primary schools of Matlab North upazila, Chandpur, to ensure teacher attendance have become non-functional, turning a multimillion-taka investment into a waste. The devices, installed about eight years ago across 180 schools during the 2018–19 fiscal year, cost each school between Tk 26,000 and Tk 35,000, though similar machines were available in the market for Tk 5,000–6,000. Many of the machines are now missing or disconnected, with no operational database links.

Teachers and local officials have alleged that the machines were supplied at inflated prices under political pressure from ruling party members and that the project lacked proper planning and technical support. Several head teachers said the devices never worked due to missing connections and oversight, calling the initiative a misuse of government funds. The Upazila Primary Education Officer confirmed that none of the machines are currently functional.

Calls have been made for an investigation and accountability to prevent similar irregularities in future education technology projects.