Call to scrap intake test plan as 'move to commercialise edn'

The Socialist Students Front has strongly condemned the government's decision to reintroduce admission tests for school enrolment from grades one to nine starting in the 2027 academic year, replacing the existing lottery system.

In a joint statement, President Mukta Baroi and General Secretary Raihan Uddin said the move is not an isolated administrative decision but part of a broader political agenda to gradually commercialise the education sector. 

They alleged that the state has failed to ensure equal access to quality education, including sufficient schools and trained teachers, and is now attempting to institutionalise inequality through competitive admission tests.

The leaders argued that past experience shows admission tests inevitably fuel the expansion of coaching centres. Despite assurances from the education ministry that coaching businesses will not be encouraged, they described such claims as unrealistic. 

"Competitive exams create pressure, and that pressure drives families toward private coaching. Those with financial means will benefit, while children from low-income families will fall behind," the statement said.

They also raised concerns about the government's capacity to conduct fair and transparent admission tests nationwide. With thousands of schools involved, they warned that weak oversight could lead to irregularities such as question leaks, favouritism, and financial corruption.

Citing global practices, the organisation noted that most developed countries do not require admission tests at the primary level. Child development experts have repeatedly cautioned that early exposure to competitive exams can harm children's mental growth and confidence.

While criticising the lottery system as inadequate, the group stressed that the real solution lies in expanding quality public education, increasing budget allocation, ensuring qualified teachers, and guaranteeing access to nearby schools for all children.

They demanded immediate cancellation of the decision, warning of protests if it is not withdrawn.