NOV 14, V7N -The Tarabunia Amena Khatun Girls' Dakhil Madrasa in Rajapur, Jhalakathi, is facing a severe collapse in its educational activities. Despite official records showing 207 students, the madrasa operates with only about 70 students, as claimed by its acting principal. Regular attendance is said to be around 30 students, but an on-site visit revealed only 12 students attending across seven classes.

During the visit, there was only one student in the 10th grade, two in the 9th grade, two in the 8th grade, three in the 7th grade, one in the 6th grade, and three in the 5th grade.

The madrasa employs 15 teachers and staff, with a monthly salary expense of 265,000 BDT. However, several staff members, including the agricultural teacher Farzana and the support staff Salma Begum, were not present during the visit.

Local residents, including Abul Kaiyum, Dulal, and Hossain Ali, expressed concerns about teachers’ lack of regular attendance. Many reportedly leave after noon or skip work altogether. Complaints have also been raised about the acting principal, Rustam Ali, who is often absent, citing meetings or other excuses. This negligence is blamed for the madrasa’s declining educational environment, leading to frustration among locals.

Parents and local community members claim that the madrasa often dismisses students by noon and locks its doors by 1:30 or 2:00 PM, with staff leaving early. The lack of proper oversight and dedication by teachers and staff has resulted in low student attendance and inadequate lessons.

Acting principal Rustam Ali denied the allegations, stating that two staff members were on verbal leave and that classes were conducted regularly. He attributed the low attendance to competition from nearby institutions and the rural location of the madrasa. He also claimed efforts were underway to increase student enrollment and attendance.

Upazila Education Officer Mostafa Alam has stated that the madrasa will be inspected on-site, and necessary actions will be taken to address the issues.

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