Dhaka, July 18: A new wave of protests has erupted in Bangladesh, driven by demands for reforms in the education system. Students from Generation Z have taken to the streets in Dhaka and other cities. This movement began approximately five months after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) assumed power.
The Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations, which started on July 2, faced significant disruptions due to adverse weather conditions. Around 1.3 million students participated in these exams, but heavy rainfall in the second week of July severely impacted the schedule. The Chattogram region experienced extensive flooding, affecting major cities like Dhaka and Chattogram.
Reports indicate that the flooding caused substantial damage across various parts of Bangladesh. In response, the Ministry of Education postponed exams in five districts under the Chattogram Education Board. However, examinations in other boards continued as scheduled, leading to widespread discontent among students.
According to an article by the online magazine ‘The Diplomat’, the flooding situation was particularly dire in Chattogram. Many students had to wade through knee-deep water to reach their examination centers, facing rain and storms along the way. This challenging situation fueled anger among students and their parents.
The discontent escalated after a viral audio clip surfaced on social media, featuring a phone conversation between Education Minister A.N.M. Ehsanul Haque Milan and a female student’s guardian. In the clip, the minister made a controversial remark about “chickens in the form,” which incited further outrage among students.
Local media reports indicate that protests took place in at least 13 districts, including Dhaka, Chattogram, and Comilla. Students blocked roads, surrounded education board offices, and organized rallies. In Dhaka, demonstrators jammed major intersections and shouted sarcastic slogans.
Amid the growing unrest, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman held an emergency meeting with Minister Milan in the parliament on July 14. Following this, Milan publicly apologized for his remarks, acknowledging the difficulties students faced due to heavy rain and flooding.
On July 15, he announced that arrangements would be made for students who were unable to take their exams to retake them.
The report emphasizes the need for the government to demonstrate greater sensitivity, preparedness, and integrity to prevent such issues in the future. Respecting students’ feelings and addressing their concerns is crucial for maintaining a sound education system in a sensitive and democratic environment.
Leave a Comment