Energy Crisis and the Future of Online Classes

No final decision has been reached regarding the transition to online classes in Bangladesh’s educational institutions despite ongoing concerns over the global energy crisis. Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon briefed reporters at the Secretariat on Sunday (April 5), noting that the government is still evaluating the situation.

The Minister confirmed that a definitive decision is expected within the week. "We will meet with stakeholders over the next two to three days," Milon stated. "Following those discussions, a final decision will be presented at the cabinet meeting this Thursday."

Earlier on Sunday, the Ministry held consultations with representatives from English-medium schools and the Bangladesh National Cadet Corps (BNCC) to gather feedback on the feasibility of hybrid learning.

The discussion follows an April 2 briefing by Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani, who had initially suggested a decision would be reached by Sunday. Currently, the Cabinet is considering a proposal to hold online classes one day per week to reduce energy consumption, a necessity driven by global fuel shortages and geopolitical instability in the Middle East.

Educational institutions recently reopened on March 29 after a 40-day break for Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr. The Ministry of Education is expected to issue specific guidelines for schools once the Cabinet approves a final strategy.