13% students satisfied with technical education in 3 districts

A recent report by the research institute CPD reveals that while 67% of technical education institutions in three districts of Bangladesh have good infrastructure, only 13% of current and former students express satisfaction with the quality of education. 

Additionally, 63% of alumni earn monthly salaries below Tk 10,000.

These findings were presented at a national conference focused on the role of local technical and vocational education institutions in fostering youth employment, held at the Krishibid Institution in Dhaka on Saturday (November 2). 

The conference was organized by the Citizen Platform for SDG Implementation and ESDO.

The report, delivered by senior researcher Taufiqul Islam Khan, gathered insights from 600 students, 60 teachers and coaches, 240 parents, 75 government officials, subject experts, and 75 employers involved in government technical education and training programs across Panchagarh, Sunamganj, and Satkhira.

Key issues highlighted in the report include a lack of necessary materials and equipment in educational institutions, insufficient lab facilities, and the absence of polytechnic institutes in Panchagarh and Sunamganj, limiting students' access to long-term education. 

Furthermore, due to a lack of student databases, some students exploit loopholes to register at multiple technical educational institutes.

The report also noted a declining percentage of female students among those completing secondary-level technical education, with many students reporting societal stigma surrounding their chosen paths.

To address these challenges, the report recommends increasing the budget implementation rate for the Department of Education, enhancing incentives to encourage women's participation in challenging professions, promoting vocational training, and providing need-based training.

Alumni have suggested introducing agro-tourism, agriculture, and wig-making trades in Panchagarh, as well as emphasising agro-industry and frozen food processing courses in Satkhira, particularly for mango, shrimp, and Sundarban honey production. Additionally, they propose starting agriculture, fisheries, and tourism programs in Sunamganj.

The conference featured insights from Honorary Fellow of CPD Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya, former USEP Bangladesh President A Matin Chowdhury, Expatriate Welfare and Foreign Employment Secretary Md Ruhul Amin, and ESDO Executive Director Dr Muhammad Shaheed Uz Zaman, among others.