Govt considers blended online-offline education to address crisis impacts

The government is exploring a blended education system combining online and offline learning to mitigate the effects of global crises and the ongoing fuel situation.

Education Minister A N M Ehsanul Haque Milan revealed the new plan to reporters at the Secretariat on Tuesday (March 31).

"Policy-level discussions are underway, and a proposal will soon be submitted to the Cabinet," the minister said.

He noted that recent disruptions—including Ramadan holidays and protests—have affected classroom teaching. To compensate, extending classes to six days a week instead of five is under consideration.

The plan includes partial online education at primary and college levels, while universities may have separate arrangements. A survey indicated that around 55 per cent of students and guardians support partial online learning. The government, however, is mindful of potential impacts on students’ social development.

Additionally, to tackle traffic congestion and fuel shortages in metropolitan areas, special bus services for students, electric buses, and solar-powered transport options are being considered.