Govt to tighten oversight in education sector: Milon

Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon has reiterated that the government is placing the highest priority on the education sector, with a strong commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and discipline across all levels of the system.

He made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing a discussion meeting with centre secretaries of the upcoming SSC and equivalent examinations in the Barishal region, held at the District Shilpakala Academy.

The minister acknowledged that in the past, allegations of question paper leaks and various irregularities had undermined public confidence in the examination system.

He noted that many of those responsible were not brought under accountability during the previous administration.

However, he assured that the current government is determined to take firm action against any such misconduct.

As part of reform efforts, Milon said the government has taken steps to amend the Public Examinations Act, 1980. The proposed amendment has already been placed before the Cabinet and is expected to be presented in Parliament soon. Once enacted, the revised law is likely to introduce major changes aimed at strengthening oversight and preventing malpractice.

He explained that digital monitoring systems will be incorporated to curb cheating, while the scope of public examinations may be expanded to include recruitment tests for government jobs, banks, and other institutions. This, he said, would help ensure fairness and prevent candidates from gaining advantage through unfair means.

Highlighting broader policy goals, the minister said the government is considering increasing education sector allocation to up to 5 per cent of GDP, which could significantly improve infrastructure, teaching standards, and overall quality of education.

He also noted that the government will investigate the underlying causes of the sector’s recent decline and review allegations of irregularities in more than 200 projects implemented during the previous administration.

Necessary steps will be taken based on the findings, he added.