Dhaka, Oct 02 (V7N) – Dr. Manzoor Ahmed, Emeritus Professor at Brac University and convener of the Primary Education Consultant Committee, has recommended that subject division be postponed until the eleventh grade, rather than the current practice of dividing subjects in the ninth grade. This suggestion aims to reduce disparities and improve the overall quality of education.

During an event titled "Continuous Transformation in Education to Eliminate Disparities: Context of Bangladesh," organized by the Campaign for Popular Literacy at the Sirdap auditorium, Dr. Ahmed stressed the need for an "Education Commission" to drive necessary reforms. He emphasized that such reforms should be based on a structured, long-term decision-making process.

Responding to questions, Dr. Ahmed highlighted that many countries have moved away from early subject division in grades nine and ten, deeming it inappropriate for Bangladesh as well. He advocated for a more thoughtful approach, calling for a commission to guide reforms in a systematic manner.

Dr. Erum Mariam, Managing Director of the Institute of Education and Research at Brac University, also spoke at the event, underscoring the significance of children's mental health in the learning process. She emphasized the need to prioritize mental well-being across all levels of education, from pre-primary to higher education.

Rasheda K Chowdhury, Executive Director of the Campaign for Popular Literacy, opened the event, stating that educational reforms are essential to addressing disparities and ensuring continuous transformation. She pointed out that despite ongoing efforts, the education system remains sidelined due to political and economic factors.

The written statement presented at the event emphasized that educational transformation involves more than curriculum changes, highlighting the need for comprehensive reform in teaching methods, assessment processes, and teacher development. It also called for increased investment in education, suggesting that at least 4% of the country's GDP be allocated to the sector to sustain long-term reforms.

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