State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj announced that the government has adopted a phased plan to supply uniforms and shoes to about 10.7 million government primary school students. As part of a 180-day program, a pilot initiative is being implemented to test the effectiveness of distributing quality clothing and footwear. The announcement came during a meeting at the ministry with leading footwear brands to discuss free distribution of uniforms and shoes to students.

Hajjaj stated that top organizations in the country’s garment industry have already responded positively, providing over 400,000 uniforms for the pilot project. The government also expects cooperation from domestic footwear manufacturers. Initial discussions focused on supplying white velcro shoes for first-grade students, considering size variations and gender-specific needs. Companies were asked to submit details on potential donations, delivery timelines, and production costs.

The minister emphasized that the government aims to show visible progress in the pilot program by August and begin implementation within the administration’s first six months. Senior ministry officials and top footwear company executives attended the meeting.

Cracks have appeared in several parts of the Valuka Model Mosque and Islamic Cultural Center in Mymensingh before its official inauguration, sparking anger and concern among local residents and worshippers. The mosque is part of a national project under the Ministry of Religious Affairs to build 560 model mosques and cultural centers across Bangladesh, with each costing around 15 to 17 crore taka depending on design and location. The Valuka mosque was built by contractor Rajib Chowdhury of Naima Rahman Construction.

On-site inspection revealed multiple cracks and raised questions about construction quality. Locals alleged that the contractor attempted to conceal the cracks through surface repairs before handover. The mosque’s verification committee, led by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Firoz Hossain, has not yet accepted the building. The Upazila Engineer reported finding several defects and said repairs were underway before a final report is submitted.

Officials from the Public Works Department stated that the contractor was instructed to fix the flaws and that handover will proceed only after the structure is verified as defect-free.

Education Minister Dr. Ehsanul Haque Milan announced that the government is implementing multiple initiatives to make children’s education more enjoyable. Speaking on Thursday at the inauguration of the National Primary School Gold Cup Football Tournament 2026 in Mirpur, Dhaka, he said every primary school in the country will provide mid-day meals within this year to prevent malnutrition among students. He also stated that within two months, all schoolchildren will receive uniforms.

The minister emphasized that the Prime Minister envisions a joyful education system where children learn through play and creativity. To support this, sports are being integrated into the curriculum to encourage physical activity and enthusiasm among students. He highlighted that over 65,000 institutions are participating in the tournament, which he described as a record-setting event.

Dr. Milan added that under the fifth primary education plan, no school will remain without a building, mid-day meal, or student uniform. He expressed hope that these measures will help build the future Bangladesh envisioned by the Prime Minister.

A newly constructed ten-storey dormitory at Rajshahi University, named 'Bijoy 71 Hall', has developed cracks on its walls and pillars even before its official inauguration. The Tk 74 crore project was supposed to open in December last year but remains unfinished, with incomplete gas, water, and electricity connections. Students relocated there from older, quake-damaged halls have expressed fear and frustration as plaster continues to fall off despite repairs.

The hall, built by Majid Sons Construction Limited, the same firm previously criticized for irregularities in other projects, began construction in September 2021. Its completion deadline was extended multiple times, and two workers reportedly died from electrocution during the project. The hall includes facilities such as a mosque, auditorium, gym, and library for about 1,100 students.

University engineers have attributed the cracks to temperature effects and assured that they are repairable. However, student leaders have demanded a formal investigation, alleging negligence and corruption in the construction process. The university administration has pledged to review the matter and ensure safety before opening the facility.

The Directorate of Primary Education has announced that the results of the fifth-grade scholarship examination will be published by June 15, 2026. Although the results were initially expected before Eid, officials said additional time is needed to verify data accurately due to the large number of candidates. The exam, delayed several times because of legal complications, was held from April 15 to 18, 2026.

This year, about 650,000 students participated nationwide, with 82,500 to be selected for scholarships. Of these, 66,000 will come from government primary schools under an 80 percent quota, and 16,500 from private or kindergarten institutions under a 20 percent quota. The gender ratio will remain equal, and scholarships will be divided into talent pool and general categories, each with specific monthly and annual allowances.

Results will be accessible online through the IPEMIS portal or via SMS to 16222. The government is also considering a proposal to increase scholarship amounts by two to four times in the future.

India is preparing to purchase military drones worth more than $2 billion from domestic manufacturers this year, marking the country’s largest drone acquisition program to date. The plan, currently in an advanced stage, was confirmed by the Drone Federation of India (DFI), which works closely with the government. DFI president Smitt Shah said the drones could be delivered within 18 to 24 months under a fast-track procurement process to meet urgent operational needs. The Indian defense ministry has not yet commented on the plan.

The initiative follows last year’s border clashes with Pakistan, during which both sides used drones extensively for the first time. The conflicts in Ukraine and Iran have also accelerated global drone adoption, highlighting their cost-effectiveness and tactical advantages. India’s defense ministry had earlier approved a $24.85 billion proposal for aircraft, missile systems, and armed drones, though spending details were not specified.

Analysts say drones have become central to India’s military planning, with over 600 domestic firms now producing drones and components. The government’s policy support and procurement clarity are driving investment and partnerships across major defense groups and startups.

A recent survey by Caritas Bangladesh revealed that 58.2 percent of children living in slums and on the streets lack birth certificates, leaving them excluded from education, healthcare, and social safety programs. The study, conducted in 2025 across Dhaka, Mymensingh, and Rajshahi, covered 667 street children and 1,246 slum-dwelling families. It found that 91.7 percent of these families are outside government social protection schemes, and over half of the children are not attending school.

Officials from the Registrar General’s Office acknowledged that floating and addressless families face major challenges in birth registration despite daily progress nationwide. Caritas representatives described the lack of birth certificates as a human rights crisis, noting that many parents do not know their national ID numbers, making registration nearly impossible. They also highlighted weak coordination between health facilities and registration offices, which prevents newborns from being registered.

Caritas recommended simplifying registration for parentless children, introducing hospital-based registration, and expanding conditional cash programs to improve child welfare and education access among marginalized groups.

State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj announced that the government is working to establish a coordinated and accountable framework to ensure quality education for all students in Bangladesh. As part of this effort, all English medium schools across the country will be brought under a unified policy. The initiative aims to ensure educational standards, teaching excellence, student safety, accountability, and alignment with national interests.

Hajjaj made the remarks while visiting The Aga Khan Academy, where he observed a student exhibition showcasing research, innovation projects, and creative presentations. He emphasized that the government seeks to build an education system that fosters critical thinking, innovation, and leadership among students, preparing them to lead the future of Bangladesh. He also highlighted the goal of providing equal opportunities for students from all educational streams—Bangla medium, English version, or English medium—to develop national values, civic responsibility, and global competencies.

During the visit, the state minister praised the academy’s modern teaching methods and leadership development programs and urged other institutions to expand research and creative learning initiatives.

Jamaat-e-Islami organized the sacrifice of 120 cows in Feni for underprivileged families during Eid. The meat from these animals was distributed among approximately 10,000 families across different neighborhoods on Eid day and the following day. Party leaders and activists, including central Majlis-e-Shura member Professor Liaquat Ali Bhuiyan, Dr. Fakhruddin Manik, district Ameer Mufti Abdul Hannan, and city Ameer Nazrul Islam, participated in the distribution process.

According to district Jamaat’s publicity and media secretary A N M Abdur Rahim, the sacrifices were made in the name of Allah with the support of leaders, activists, and well-wishers. District Ameer Mufti Abdul Hannan stated that, as in previous years, the initiative aimed to share Eid’s joy with the less fortunate and to continue such welfare activities for divine satisfaction and public benefit in the future.

The Technical and Madrasa Education Division of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Education has issued the 2026 transfer policy for MPO-listed teachers working in private madrasas. The policy, published on Tuesday, sets eligibility for transfer applications after two years of service and allows a maximum of three transfers during a teacher’s career. All transfer processes will be conducted through an automated software system, and the policy took effect immediately upon publication. It replaces the 2024 transfer policy issued in December 2024.

According to the new policy, the Directorate of Madrasa Education will publish vacancy lists online and invite applications within government-specified timeframes. Teachers may apply for transfer to equivalent posts in other madrasas, with priority given to women, distance, spouse’s workplace, and seniority. Transfers will not be considered a right, and teachers will not receive travel or daily allowances. The policy also maintains continuity of MPO benefits and seniority after transfer.

The Bangladesh Madrasa General Teachers Association has protested the policy, alleging discrimination because it applies only to NTRCA-recommended teachers, unlike the broader transfer provisions for school and college teachers.

A new wave of short-term global education programs based on international collaboration is allowing students to gain global learning experiences from their home countries. These programs, offering exposure to international education, research, and intercultural environments at lower costs, are drawing global attention. Experts are debating how effective these programs are compared to long-term overseas study.

Partnerships between Asian universities and European or international institutions are expanding, introducing new dimensions to higher education. Specialists emphasize that these programs are not shortened versions of foreign degrees but independent learning experiences, particularly beneficial for students unable to study abroad for extended periods. Employers are increasingly valuing skills, problem-solving ability, and practical experience over the origin of degrees, though many still rate full foreign degrees higher.

Experts conclude that short-term global programs are not replacements for full overseas study but complementary alternatives that make international education more accessible and multidimensional, offering students multiple pathways to global exposure and career readiness.

The Technical and Madrasa Education Division has released a new transfer policy for MPO-listed madrasa teachers. The policy was published on the division’s website on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. According to the guidelines, the Directorate of Madrasa Education will publish online the list of vacant posts and related details within a government-specified timeframe. Applications for transfer will be invited against these vacancies, and all procedures including application submission, order issuance, and joining at the new workplace will be completed within the period set by the government.

Teachers will be eligible to apply for transfer after completing two years of service at their first posting. Applications can be made to equivalent-level madrasas and for the same position, including to any district in the country for family convenience. Each teacher will be allowed a maximum of three transfers during their career. The entire process, including eligibility verification and application submission, will be conducted online as per the prescribed rules.

Interested teachers can find detailed information on the Technical and Madrasa Education Division’s official website.

Education Minister Ehsanul Haque Milon has indicated that the announced schedule for the 2027 Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations may be revised. Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat after a ministry meeting on Tuesday, he said the final decision would be made following further discussions with stakeholders. The minister explained that the exams were initially planned for late February but were moved up by a month to avoid overlapping with Ramadan, with the routine set to conclude by February 8.

Milon noted that the ministry aims to synchronize the academic sessions and reduce the extended duration of education, which currently exceeds the intended timeline by up to two years. He acknowledged that while some had requested the exams be completed before Ramadan, social media criticism has since called for holding them afterward. The minister said the issue would be reconsidered through further consultations.

Earlier, on May 14, Milon had announced that the 2027 SSC and equivalent exams would start on January 7, sparking criticism among students and parents for being scheduled earlier than usual.

Many students aspiring for higher education abroad face challenges with English proficiency tests such as IELTS due to high fees and lengthy preparation. The report explains that several foreign universities and scholarship authorities now accept the Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate as an alternative proof of English proficiency, making overseas study more accessible for students who completed their degrees in English.

An MOI certificate officially confirms that a student completed a course or degree in English. It can be obtained from the registrar or examination office of the last attended institution by submitting an application with academic details and supporting documents. Some universities, however, only accept MOI if the degree was completed within the past five years, requiring others to submit IELTS or similar test results.

Countries such as Germany, Hungary, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Poland, France, Sweden, Denmark, China, and South Korea have universities that accept MOI. Several major scholarships, including Stipendium Hungaricum, Erasmus Mundus, and Swedish Institute programs, also allow applications without IELTS, provided MOI and other eligibility conditions are met.

Education Minister Dr. A N M Ehsanul Haque Milan has indicated that the 2027 Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations may see a change in schedule. Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on June 2 after a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, he said the government had initially planned to hold the exams in January. However, due to Ramadan falling in February, the schedule might be pushed back by a month, though no final decision has been made.

The minister explained that the government had earlier prepared a routine aiming to complete the exams before Ramadan, but this plan is now being reconsidered following requests from various stakeholders. He emphasized that opinions from parents, students, teachers, and the media are being taken into account before finalizing the decision.

Dr. Milan added that the SSC is a major public examination requiring full syllabus completion. The final schedule will be determined after considering students’ preparation, syllabus completion, and overall practical realities.