Abolishing 'assistant teacher' posts in primary schools recommended

A Consultation Committee tasked with improving the quality of primary education has recommended abolishing the post of 'assistant teacher' in both government and private primary schools.

Instead, the committee proposes starting careers with the title of 'teacher,' with opportunities for promotion to 'senior teacher' based on experience and performance. 

The committee submitted its report, containing 14 recommendations, to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Monday (February 10) afternoon.

Later, Primary and Mass Education Adviser Professor Dr Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar briefed journalists at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.

Members of the Consultation Committee were also present at the briefing. 

The recommendations focus on enhancing the professional status, promotion opportunities, and career advancement of teachers and field-level education workers. Among the key proposals is the consideration of a separate status and higher salary structure for primary school teachers in the long term, with immediate steps suggested to initiate these changes. 

The 9-member committee emphasised the need for systemic reforms to elevate the quality of primary education in Bangladesh, ensuring better recognition and support for educators.  

The consultation committee's recommendations on teachers' salaries highlight several key reforms. Currently, teachers are placed in the 13th grade, while head teachers have been upgraded to the 11th grade. Although the High Court has supported the demand to place head teachers in the 10th grade, the government has filed a review petition challenging this decision.  

In light of these developments, the committee has proposed interim measures until a separate status and higher salary structure for teachers are established. 

These include:   

Entry-level teachers: Start in the 12th grade.  

Permanent status: Granted after two years of service.  

Promotion to senior teacher: Move to the 11th grade after an additional two years.  

For head teachers, the committee recommends:  

Withdrawing the government’s review application and fixing the 10th grade for head teachers.  

Appointing all head teachers through promotions.  

Ensuring eligibility for higher scales for both teachers and head teachers as per existing rules.  

Increasing the number of assistant head teacher posts, filled by senior teachers with a responsibility allowance.  

Regarding field-level officers and employees, the committee has proposed:  

Immediate filling of promotion-eligible posts and vacancies.  

Implementing integrated gradation and mutual transfer policies.  

Establishing regional offices and creating a primary education cadre service.