NCTB denies issuing international tender for secondary textbook printing

The National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) has denied reports of an international tender being issued for printing free textbooks for secondary students in the 2026 academic year. The board urged the public and media not to be misled by inaccurate news.

In a press release signed by NCTB Secretary Professor Md. Sahtab Uddin on Sunday, the board stated that no such decision has been taken. Recent reports in some print and electronic media claiming an international tender was underway are false and not endorsed by the NCTB.

The clarification comes amid growing opposition to the proposed international tender. A protest was planned for Sunday noon in front of the NCTB office in Motijheel, but the demonstration had not started by 12:30 PM. A small group of youths was seen near the building during this time.

Security measures were increased around the NCTB headquarters, with the main gate closed and police stationed outside. Law enforcement officials said security was tightened to maintain order.

Education experts pointed out that local printing companies have traditionally managed textbook production in Bangladesh. However, recent talks about opening tenders to international companies have triggered strong objections from publishers and industry stakeholders.