Free textbooks distributed to students under the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) will no longer be printed abroad, announced Education Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud on Wednesday (1 January).
Speaking as the chief guest at the launch of the online version of textbooks at the International Mother Language Institute in Dhaka, the adviser underscored efforts to streamline the textbook printing process and eliminate monopolistic practices.
"We aim to ensure a more disciplined and transparent system for the printing and distribution of textbooks," he said, adding that measures will be taken to improve the quality of printing, paper, and binding.
Highlighting the initiative to localise production, Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud declared, "From now on, textbooks will no longer be printed overseas. All printing will be carried out within the country."
Addressing corruption, he revealed plans for extensive reforms across all ministries, including education.
"Over the years, several individuals involved in the printing industry have become corrupt. Many have been transferred, and the Anti-Corruption Commission will be asked to investigate former officials and employees of the education ministry involved in corrupt practices," he stated.
The adviser also acknowledged challenges in textbook distribution, noting, "Books were printed at previous market rates. We faced numerous obstacles during the process. A list of those who impeded our efforts will be handed over to the government next year."
Mahmud further assured that revisions have been made to remove political bias from textbooks, ensuring neutrality. He announced the inclusion of advanced mathematics and science in the curriculum for classes nine and ten, complementing the existing general mathematics and science subjects.
These developments, coupled with the digitisation of textbooks, reflect a significant stride towards enhancing education quality and governance in Bangladesh.
