The uncertain future of the Tk 50cr ‘Noipunno’ student assessment app
The Tk 50 crore Noipunno App, launched with the goal of streamlining student assessments under Bangladesh’s new curriculum, now faces an uncertain future.
Developed to address concerns over teacher bias and provide a uniform evaluation platform, the app was designed to revolutionise how students in classes VI through IX were assessed. However, following the interim government’s cancellation of the new curriculum and a return to traditional examination methods, the app’s functionality has been rendered obsolete.
What remains of the once-promising platform, and what does its future hold? Concerns have arisen about the app’s potential for positive use, data security, and the fate of nearly one crore students, teachers, and parents whose personal information is stored within the app.
A costly investment on hold
The Noipunno App was launched on November 4, 2023, following widespread dissatisfaction with the new curriculum and its evaluation system. NCTB (National Curriculum and Textbook Board) spearheaded the project with support from UNESCO, while A2i handled its development. The app promised to simplify hands-on learning assessments and provide a digital platform where teachers could track and report students’ progress. Yet, despite an investment of Tk 50 crore, including an extravagant launch event costing half a million taka, the app was met with a mixed reception.
Teachers faced difficulties using the app, particularly in entering data. While improvements were promised, the rollout was met with challenges, leaving many report cards to be prepared manually.
By 2024, the app was set to be a cornerstone of the national assessment system, but the suspension of the curriculum and related exams left the app’s role unclear.
Functionality in limbo
At its core, the Noipunno App was meant to replace traditional exams with continuous hands-on evaluations. Teachers could input performance indicators, and students were evaluated on their activities throughout the year, rather than sitting for formal tests. The app also facilitated student registration and centralised question paper distribution.
However, since the interim government’s policy reversal, the app has been inactive. NCTB has shifted its focus, and it remains uncertain whether the app will be repurposed.
"The app is no longer active," confirmed NCTB Chairman Prof Riazul Hasan Chowdhury, leaving many wondering what will happen to the data it holds.
Data security concerns
The app currently holds data on more than 5 million students, including personal details such as birth registration numbers, guardians' information, and even NID numbers. Additionally, information on 500,000 teachers is stored within the platform. This has raised alarm among parents and educators alike, who are questioning the security of the data.
"I gave all my details for my daughter's registration," said Zohra Khatun, a concerned parent. "With the app now inactive, who guarantees that this information won’t be misused?"
Although officials from A2i, the app’s developers, assure the public that the data is secure, cyber experts warn of potential risks.
"Inactive platforms containing such vast amounts of data are highly vulnerable to breaches," said cybersecurity expert Suman Ahmed Sabir. He advocates for a swift decision on the app’s future, whether it be deletion or repurposing.
What’s next for Noipunno?
While the app is currently in limbo, some experts see potential for its use beyond the now-canceled curriculum.
Sajjad Hossain Khan, an education expert with A2i, believes the app could still play a valuable role in student data management and research. "It can help track a student's progress throughout their academic life, provide valuable insights, and even maintain a secure question bank," he said.
However, the ultimate decision rests with the government, specifically NCTB, which will determine whether the app can be adapted for future educational initiatives or if it will be permanently shelved.
For now, the Noipunno App stands as a symbol of ambitious reform that, despite its potential, faces an uncertain fate amidst a rapidly changing educational landscape. The question remains: Will this Tk 50 crore investment be a lesson in wasted resources or a tool repurposed for future innovation?
