Education today: The curriculum we need
Md. Rahamot Ullah
Deshkal News, 10 March 2026
Bangladesh is moving forward with the hope of becoming a developed country in the future. In this journey, the greatest asset of the nation is human resources. Therefore, to develop skilled and humane citizens who can compete at the international level, we need a modern, multidimensional, and practical curriculum. Education for the new era should not only focus on exams and academic knowledge. It should also build life skills, moral values, technological abilities, and a sense of global citizenship. A comprehensive educational framework with these qualities is now essential.
First, morality and humanity must be at the heart of the education system. The goal of education is not only to produce skilled workers but also to develop honest, responsible, and patriotic citizens. Values such as empathy, tolerance, environmental awareness, and social responsibility should be effectively included in the curriculum. In addition to textbook lessons, activities like community service, social engagement, and volunteer work should also be recognized and evaluated.
Second, the curriculum should be competency-based. It is more important what students can do with their knowledge than what they simply know. Skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and teamwork should be central to the curriculum. Along with theoretical knowledge, students should have opportunities for project-based learning, presentations, fieldwork, and internships to gain real-life experience. At the same time, students should also practice memorizing or internalising important lessons/theories where necessary.
Third, technology and digital literacy must become an essential part of the curriculum. In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, students need basic knowledge of artificial intelligence, data analysis, coding, and robotics to stay competitive globally. However, along with technological skills, it is equally important to teach cyber ethics and responsible digital behavior.
Fourth, technical and vocational education should be integrated into mainstream education. In Bangladesh, there has long been an invisible divide between general education, religious education, and technical education, both in the system and in people's mindset. In many developed countries, skill-based education and training are highly respected. Therefore, from the secondary level, students should have the opportunity to choose different educational tracks according to their interests and abilities.
Fifth, a balance between global outlook and local relevance is necessary. To maintain international standards, students must learn about world history, global economics, science, and cultures. At the same time, they should also develop a deep understanding of Bangladesh’s history, heritage, language, culture, nature, the spirit of the Liberation War, and genuine religious values. This balance will help students become true global citizens who remain connected to their roots.
Sixth, the assessment system needs reform. Instead of depending only on written examinations, greater importance should be given to continuous assessment, oral presentations, project work, and practical tests. This will reduce rote learning and encourage creativity. However, in the context of Bangladesh, careful consideration is needed regarding how much practical assessment should be assigned to teachers at different levels.
Finally, teacher training and the leadership of institution heads are extremely important. A modern curriculum may look impressive on paper, but it cannot succeed without skilled teachers and capable institutional leaders. Therefore, opportunities for teachers’ professional development, research, and technological training must be expanded.
Education for the new era demands a curriculum that combines knowledge, skills, and human values. To build patriotic, ethical, and competent citizens who can compete globally, comprehensive reform in our education system has become a necessity of the time.
Md. Rahamot Ullah: Former Principal, Educationist, and Children's Author.
