TDS Desk:

The ministry accepted the teachers’ demands, who have been protesting against the scheme since July 1, following a meeting on Monday with the Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers’ Association.

The education ministry will inform Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of the teachers’ demands and make a final decision upon receiving her approval, a ministry source said on Tuesday.

Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury Nowfel, Prime Minister’s Education and Cultural Affairs Adviser Dr Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury and former education minister Nurul Islam Nahid attended the meeting.

Dr Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury said, “The teachers presented their demands, and we discussed them. We will consult with the Finance Division and announce the final decision later. However, we are positive about addressing the teachers’ demands.”

Earlier, the education minister told the media that the government does not treat teachers like government servants and will consider their demands sincerely.

Professor DrNizamulHaqueBhuiyan, secretary general of the Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers’ Association, told The Business Post, “The ministry has agreed to our demands and assured us that teachers will be excluded from the ‘Prottoy’ scheme.”

“There is a process to reach the final decision. The ministry will consult with the prime minister and other relevant authorities. But we remain hopeful,” he added.

When asked about ending the movement, he said, “Our movement will continue, and we will decide on our next steps after the government’s final decision.”

A teacher who attended the meeting commented, “The minister and others were very positive about our demands. They expressed supportive opinions. Now we are waiting for the final decision.”

An official of the education ministry, wishing to remain anonymous, told The Business Post that the ministry has decided to exclude the teachers from the “Prottoy” scheme.

“The ministry has no other option but to meet the teachers’ demands in this volatile situation,” the official said.

Public university teachers have been protesting against the Universal Pension Scheme at all public universities since July 1, cancelling all classes and examinations. As a result, students face the possibility of another session jam following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, the reopening of educational institutions from pre-primary to higher secondary levels may be delayed as students protesting against the quota system in government jobs are now demanding punishment for those responsible for recent student deaths. The students have vowed to continue their movement until their demands are met.