Milon Pledges ‘No Compromise’ on Quality of 2027 Textbooks
Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon says substandard books already found for 2027 have been cancelled and destroyed and promises strict quality controls and punishment for suppliers of poor-quality textbooks.
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In a Nutshell
- Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr. ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon announced on October 3rd that there will be no compromise on the quality of textbooks distributed for 2027, emphasizing that paper, ink, printing presses, and overall print quality will all be subject to strict standards.
- He added that students will receive quality textbooks on time, and warned that those supplying substandard books will face exemplary punishment.
- The minister also outlined plans to expand primary school meals, adjust exam schedules around monsoon disasters and print question papers at two separate presses.
- Other proposals include adding sports and cultural books in Class Four and establishing technical schools and colleges in every upazila.
Context
Speaking at a discussion, organised by Kachua Upazila Samity, in Dhaka on 3 October, the minister said substandard books already identified for the 2027 school year had been cancelled and destroyed and the government intends to ensure textbooks reached students on time.
His remarks came alongside a broader set of education proposals, including school meals in 150 upazilas, changes to examination arrangements and new technical education options.
Why It Matters
For many years, delayed deliveries and messy print quality hampered the start of school for many students. Strict rules and harsh penalties for suppliers may help printing companies to do their jobs right. Moreover, if the government strictly ensures paper and ink quality, taxpayer money stops disappearing into low quality products. Most importantly, getting clean, high-quality books into children's hands on day one gives every student a fair start in school.
What We Think
Commitment for "no compromise" and destroying bad copies, zero tolerance for cheap printing and strict punishments is a strong one. It is a challenge to be fulfilled because Bangladesh wants to move forward from the unfulfilled promises and low quality of previous years. Thus, real accountability lies in finally replacing decades of educational neglect.