Double shift in educational institutions to be introduced on application basis, not all at once: Minister

Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon has said the government has no plan to introduce ‘double shift’ simultaneously in educational institutions at the divisional and district levels across the country, including the capital Dhaka. The decision to introduce a second shift on an institution-wise basis will be taken subject to applications considering the pressure of students, local demand and the capacity of the institution.

The Education Minister disclosed this information during the question-answer session of the 13th National Parliament session on Tuesday (September 8). Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal presided over the session.

Pabna-5 constituency lawmaker Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas wanted to know whether the government has any plan to increase the number of seats by introducing two shifts in educational institutions as per demand at the divisional cities and district levels across the country, including Dhaka. In reply, the Education Minister stated in a written statement that there is scope to introduce a second shift in any educational institution as per the existing policy considering the pressure of students and local needs.

However, he said this system will not be introduced in all institutions at the same time. After receiving an application from any institution, the necessity of admitting additional students there, classrooms and other infrastructure, furniture, sanitation system and whether there are necessary teachers and staff will be verified.

Besides, the capacity to properly complete the prescribed class hours and curriculum in two shifts, academic results of the institution, administrative management and the issue of additional financial expenditure will also be taken into consideration. At the same time, whether it will be possible to maintain the quality of education if the second shift is introduced will also be reviewed.

The Education Minister said if the information and necessary documents of the applicant institution are consistent with the policy and recommendations of the concerned authorities are received, the ministry will consider the matter. If approval is obtained, the second shift can be introduced from the next suitable academic year following the prescribed conditions.

The Education Minister also said no specific timeframe has been fixed for implementing this programme across the country. According to him, since this is a matter of institution-based application, verification and approval, it is not possible to give a uniform timeframe. Necessary measures will be taken as per the existing policy after receiving the complete proposal.