Primary Schools Face Acute Leadership Shortfall

Bangladesh’s government primary schools are grappling with a severe shortage of head teachers, raising concerns about the quality of education and institutional management. According to the latest data from the annual primary school census and the relevant ministry, out of 65,457 approved head teacher posts nationwide, a staggering 34,159 remain vacant. This means that more than half of the country’s primary schools are operating without a permanent head, placing additional strain on already overstretched teaching staff.

Despite the scale of the crisis, the latest recruitment initiative appears modest in comparison. A circular issued on 31 August last year announced only 1,122 positions for direct recruitment. In contrast, nearly 700,000 candidates have applied, underscoring both the intensity of competition and the broader issue of educated unemployment in the country. On average, around 624 applicants will compete for each post, making it one of the most competitive public sector recruitment exercises in recent times.

The key figures are summarised below:

The prolonged delay in the recruitment process has further compounded frustration among candidates. Although the application period concluded in October last year, no examination date has yet been announced. Many applicants report difficulty maintaining consistent preparation amid the uncertainty.

The Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC), tasked with conducting the recruitment, views the process as a significant logistical and administrative challenge. Ensuring transparency and fairness is a particular priority, especially following allegations of digital malpractice and organised irregularities during a recent assistant teacher recruitment examination held on 9 January. In response, the commission is adopting stricter measures to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming test.

PSC Chairman Mobashwer Monem has indicated that organising an examination of this magnitude requires extensive planning, coordination with government authorities, and substantial financial resources. He noted that the test is likely to be held centrally in Dhaka, and efforts are under way to finalise arrangements as swiftly as possible.

Another factor contributing to the limited number of advertised posts is a revision of recruitment rules. Initially, 2,169 vacancies were expected to be filled through direct recruitment. However, under the updated policy, 80 per cent of positions will now be filled through promotion, leaving only 20 per cent—equivalent to 1,122 posts—for external candidates. This reduction, combined with an upgraded salary structure, has intensified competition even further.

The selection process will be conducted on a 100-mark scale, comprising a 90-mark written examination covering Bangla, English, mathematics, science and general knowledge. Candidates must secure at least 50 per cent to qualify for the final 10-mark viva voce.

Education experts emphasise that expediting the recruitment process is essential to maintaining standards in primary education. Without timely appointments, administrative inefficiencies and disruptions in teaching are likely to persist, ultimately affecting millions of young learners across the country.