AKDN takes interest in Bangladesh’s basic education development

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) takes an interest in the development of Bangladesh’s basic education to prepare students to become global citizens so that they can address new challenges both nationally and internationally.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, they co-hosted a ‘Forum on International Education for Global Citizens’ in Dhaka on Friday bringing together all stakeholders including students.

The AKDN said this was in keeping with the goal 17 of the Sustainable Development Goals which tells to “revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development”.

AKDN’s Resident Diplomatic Representative to Bangladesh Munir M Merali welcomed participants and shared the Network’s “continued interest and commitment” to the education sector in Bangladesh through additional investments, including the establishment of the Aga Khan Academy in Dhaka.

Foreign Secretary Md Shahidul Haque was present as chief guest. Secretary for Primary and Mass Education Mohammad Asif-Uz-Zaman also spoke at the forum.

Former Research Chair of Canada’s Red River College Janet Jamieson and Global Manager for Professional Development of the Aga Khan Academies Jonathan Marsh made key-note presentations.

Jamieson emphasised the importance of the early years in setting the foundations for all future learning and behaviour, including the knowledge, skills and values required for students to become global citizens.

Marsh spoke about ways in which public-private partnerships in education can be effectively leveraged to improve teaching and learning outcomes for all students.

Students from the Aga Khan School, Dhaka, Bawnia Badh Islamia Alia Madrasha, Holy Cross, Sunbeams and Viqarunnisa Noon School and College, among others, later took part in a roundtable discussion.

Students, teachers and other participants discussed ways to draw out their ideas on how education in Bangladesh can be improved to be more interactive, experiential and values-based, and how they can inculcate life skills.