Increase education budget, an education advocacy network demands

An education advocacy and campaign network today demanded increased allocation for the education sector in the upcoming budget so that it can make up for the losses due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Campaign For Popular Education (CAMPE), in a memorandum submitted to Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal, demanded at least 20 per cent budget allocation for the education sector.

It also called for providing stimulus packages for non-MPO teachers, the allocation for ensuring at least Tk 250 stipend for primary and secondary schools aiming to stop possible dropout. They also sought to ensure a digital device for each mainstream primary and secondary students.

CAMPE Deputy Director KM Enamul Hoque said that they submitted the memorandum through email.

The advocacy group also demanded that at least 10 per cent of the education budget should be allocated to district, upazila and schools levels for completing the school reopening process.

Due to Covid 19 pandemic, educational institutions have been closed since March 17 last year. The closure led to the cancellation of exams and left academic calendars in disarray. The closure was extended till May 29.

CAMPE demanded allocation for ensuring uninterrupted internet service at all education institutions and free or low-cost internet data for students.

It also called for increased allocation to expand stipends and school meal programme for students.

The 11th Jatiya Sangsad will go into the budget session at 5pm on June 2, while Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal is scheduled to place the budget for 2021-22 fiscal the following day.