Bangladesh considers retaining lottery system for school admissions

The government is reconsidering its decision to replace the lottery system with entrance examinations for admissions to public and private schools, raising the possibility that the lottery could remain in place next year.

Multiple officials from the education ministry and the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) confirmed the move.

Speaking to bdnews24.com on Monday night on condition of anonymity, a top official from the ministry said: "Discussions are under way over whether the lottery system can be retained for school admissions. 

“A final decision has not yet been reached."

The official explained that deliberations to bring back the lottery stemmed from concerns that reintroduced admission tests could place excessive pressure on young children.

"A final decision on this matter could come within this month," the officer added.

Meanwhile, a senior DSHE official, who also requested anonymity, told bdnews24.com: "The admission committee has been tasked with discussing whether to retain the lottery, or for which specific year groups it should be kept.

"We expect a final decision to be made after the publication of the SSC and equivalent examination results on 10th of August."

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon had previously announced the abolition of the school lottery system in March.