STEM education from the primary level, play-labs and science-based education initiatives to be launched: Bobby Hajjaj

He said this while speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the program titled ‘Play-based Education and Skills Development in Humanitarian Crises’ organized by BRAC and the Lego Foundation at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka on Monday (July 13).

The State Minister said that there is no alternative to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education for the future of Bangladesh. Therefore, from the primary level, a learning environment through play must be ensured to develop students' scientific practice, innovative thinking, and problem-solving skills.

He said that science, not math phobia, will be the identity of the future generation. Education is being considered the biggest investment in implementing the vision of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, and the focus of that investment will be quality primary education.

Bobby Hajjaj said that currently, only 20 percent of students study in the science division at the higher secondary level in the country, which is not enough to build a knowledge-based and technology-dependent state. Therefore, students must be made interested in STEM education from the primary level so that they can confidently choose science-based education in the future.

He informed that the government is closely monitoring the play-based education programs implemented by BRAC, the Lego Foundation, and other development partners. The possibility of introducing play-based science labs and STEM labs in government primary schools is being considered by evaluating the successful models of these programs. There are plans to initially implement pilot projects in a few hundred schools.

The State Minister further said that the government is working to set a common minimum education standard for all types of educational institutions, including government schools, Bangla medium, English medium, and madrasas. A national standard will be established in all areas, including teachers, curriculum, infrastructure, and quality of education.

He said that currently, students' learning achievements in language, mathematics, and English in primary education have not yet reached the expected level. To change this reality, the highest importance is being given to education reform, updated curriculum, technology-based education, play-based education, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-based education.

Senior officials of the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, representatives of various development organizations including BRAC, and media personnel were present at the event.