Bangladesh Needs Education Specialists, Not Just Degree Holders

Published on: August 30, 2026

Education refers to the transmission of life from the living to the living. Modern societies' conceptions of education are shaped by a number of important elements, such as institutional roles, philosophical foundations, and sociocultural dynamics. First, educational frameworks are greatly influenced by the legal and sociocultural context. In terms of philosophy, contemporary education places a strong emphasis on humanistic, democratic, and inclusive methods, which is in line with the idea that education must be a tool for social justice and community involvement. Furthermore, it is acknowledged that education is a vital institution that promotes social mobility and stability by giving people opportunities to grow both socially and economically. Due to post-industrial societal demands, there is an increased demand for high-quality education, underscoring the significance of educational services in influencing societal development. Last but not least, tackling today's educational difficulties requires the integration of educational philosophies that place a high value on humanization and practicality.

In Bangladesh, teachers can be from any academic background, but they must have a bachelor's degree and pass the teacher recruitment exam. However, in other countries like India, Finland, or Singapore, a teacher must have an education background. Now the issue arises: why should instructors and the entire education system, including the education ministry, district-level education officers, and all personnel, have an educational background? The response is that a doctor can only treat patients in a manner comparable to how an agricultural graduate can work in the field, so why would a graduate of political science or mathematics be suitable for the education sector? Thus, this is the moment to reconsider the system.

We spend a lot of time thinking only about the curriculum and never give any thought to the group that will actually be implementing it or to their ability to do so. In Bangladesh, there are just six universities that grant educational degrees (B.Ed. and M.Ed.): Dhaka University, Khulna University, Rajshahi University, Jagannath University, Chattogram University, and Noakhali Science and Technology University. Additionally, there are teacher training institutions. It is insufficient for the entire field of education.

For a long time, we have prioritized quantity above quality, as if increasing the number of GPA-5 students is more important to us than their aptitude. Teachers have an important role in improving quality. So, teachers' one- or two-year professional training is insufficient. Now, the educational background should differ from that of all other sectors. Every other public university should have an Institute of Education and Research (IER). If we teach today's students the same things we taught yesterday, we are robbing them of tomorrow. Only an education officer with an educational background understands the overall notion, as opposed to someone with a political science degree. Therefore, subject-based jobs have to be formed.

As previously stated, teachers in Bangladesh can enter the profession with a bachelor's degree and a recruitment exam; however, there is often a lack of emphasis on pedagogical training. While in Finland, teachers must hold a master's degree in education, which focuses on both subject-matter knowledge and pedagogical skills. Teacher training programs are very selective, and instructors are required to pursue continued professional development throughout their careers. Finland emphasizes a collaborative approach in which instructors actively shape the curriculum and school atmosphere. Teaching is regarded as a respectable career in Singapore, and instructors are chosen from the top of their academic fields. The National Institute of Education (NIE) provides rigorous training to teachers in subject-specific content as well as pedagogical skills. However, regarding Bangladeshi teachers, the training and opportunities provided by the government have become a significant topic of discussion.

Today, education encompasses more than just what schools, colleges, and universities can provide. In the 21st century, computer literacy is essential for true education, supplementing traditional education through industry, mass media, and the internet. As we now live in a digital age, every teacher should have a profile with their background, training, achievements, school attainment rates, and student reviews. In this process, students may search for the name of an instructor and provide feedback as well as compliments. It will promote accountability.

Education as a field should be dedicated to social justice, equity, and inclusion. It should recognize existing social, economic, and cultural inequities and endeavor to reduce them. Programs in this discipline should train educators to advocate for marginalized groups, build inclusive classrooms, and use education to promote social mobility, empowerment, and transformation.