Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury Nowfel has expressed his stance against shutting down schools due to heatwaves.
"We should move away from the mindset that educational institutions should be closed in response to any situation. Our new curriculum focuses on maintaining regular attendance in classes," said the minister in response to concerns raised from various quarters regarding the reopening of educational institutions during heatwaves.
The minister made these comments while addressing an event titled "Technical and Voluntary Education Week 2024" at Dhaka Mohila Polytechnic Institute on Sunday (April 28).
However, the minister added that if the temperature in any specific region exceeds 42 degrees Celsius, the educational institutions in that area would be closed.
"If the temperature rises above 42 degrees Celsius in any district, the district's primary education officer and secondary education officer will have the authority to close or adjust operational hours after discussions," said the minister.
The minister also mentioned that virtual classes could be implemented at higher education levels, emphasising that the ministry does not have any objection regarding this.
He further noted that a decision has been made to keep schools open on Saturdays to compensate for learning losses caused by the closure of educational institutions. "The ministry will make decisions regarding this matter once the gaps are addressed," said the minister.
