The government has finalized the draft of the "Education Act 2026," a landmark piece of legislation aimed at modernizing the nation's education system and making it more equitable.

The proposed law introduces strict measures to curb the influence of commercial coaching centers and unauthorized guidebooks, while prioritizing the physical and mental safety of students.

The Ministry of Education has published the draft on the website of its Secondary and Higher Education Division to gather public feedback. Citizens are encouraged to send their opinions via email to [email protected] by February 7, 5:00 PM.

Key Features of the Proposed Act
Consisting of 11 chapters and 55 sections, the act aims to transition education from a "privilege" to a "guaranteed citizen right." Key highlights include:

Ban on Coaching & Guidebooks: Section 15 mandates that within three to five years of the law’s enactment, all commercial coaching centers and the publication of note/guidebooks will be permanently banned. Students will be encouraged to focus solely on main textbooks, though government-approved "supplementary books" remain exempt.

Mandatory & Free Primary Education: Grades 1-5 are defined as Primary, and 6-12 as Secondary. Primary education is recognized as a fundamental right and will be free and compulsory.

Student Protection: Section 39 strictly prohibits physical punishment and mental harassment. Any violation by teachers will be classified as "misconduct." Educational institutions are also mandated to take effective measures against ragging and cyberbullying.

Inclusive Education: The law ensures education in native languages for ethnic minority children and proposes measures to improve the quality of Qawmi Madrasas.

Modernizing the Academic Landscape
Education Adviser Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar (C.R. Abrar) stated that the act is the result of extensive consultations with students, teachers, and academics across the country.

Additional Provisions

• Unified Grading & Research: A uniform grading system will be introduced at the undergraduate level. The government also plans to establish a "National Research Council" and "Central Laboratory."
• Transparency in Recruitment: The NTRCA will ensure transparency in private teacher recruitment, and public universities must follow UGC-mandated minimum qualifications for hiring.
• Digital Integration: Every student will receive a Unique ID, and a nationwide Online Learning Management System will be launched to promote e-learning.
• Legal Precedence: The Education Act 2026 will hold precedence over any other existing laws in the event of a conflict.