Govt Plans Hybrid Schooling Model amid Global Energy Crisis

The Ministry of Education is weighing the introduction of a hybrid learning model—combining both online and offline classes—to navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing global energy crisis.

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon shared the development on Tuesday morning following a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat. 

The Minister, accompanied by State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj, noted that a formal proposal will be presented to the Cabinet for a final decision.

“The global crisis is not only affecting Bangladesh and we don’t know how long it will continue. That is why we are thinking of bringing our school system online and adapting a blended system,” the Minister told reporters. 

He emphasized that the international fuel crisis has necessitated a rethink of how educational institutions operate to conserve energy while maintaining academic standards.

The proposed shift comes as the government looks to recover lost instructional time. “Previously, classes were held five days a week. Now, we have lost many sessions, so we are considering extending school hours to a six-day week. Meanwhile, due to the international fuel crisis, we are also exploring the possibility of online classes at certain times,” he explained.

Minister Milon highlighted that while a recent survey indicated approximately 85 percent of respondents favor online learning options, the government remains wary of the potential for social isolation among students if the shift is too drastic. 

“We are thinking about a balanced approach,” he added, underscoring the need to maintain social interaction alongside digital convenience.

The move follows a series of disruptions to the academic calendar, including holidays during Ramadan and various other recent disturbances, prompting the ministry to seek more flexible and resilient schooling options.