Education advisor signals end of splitting pupils into streams in secondary education

Wahiduddin Mahmud proposes greater flexibility in subject selection for 9th graders

Education Advisor Wahiduddin Mahmud has hinted at the potential abolition of splitting secondary-level pupils into classes based on ability, known as streaming.

He emphasised that students in the 9th and 10th grades should have the flexibility to choose subjects according to their interests.

He expressed his opposition to the current streaming system for the 9th grade.

Wahiduddin outlined future plans to make higher mathematics and advanced science compulsory, while allowing students to choose from a wider range of optional subjects.

He said, “With this approach, even students in the humanities can opt for science, opening up a wide range of career possibilities.”

While recognising that doing away with the streaming system may ignite criticism, the advisor stood firm on his stance during an event at the International Mother Language Institute in Dhaka’s Segunbagicha on Wednesday.

In 2023, a new curriculum had been implemented during the tenure of the Awami League government, and in 2024, it was implemented with the removal of streaming, or section divisions, in the 9th grade.

This move sparked significant backlash from parents, particularly the decision to abolish streaming.

Following the political shift in August 2024, with the resignation of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and the formation of an interim government under Muhammad Yunus, the education ministry announced on Sept 1 that the new curriculum was “not feasible” and that streaming would be reinstated.

As of 2025, streaming has returned for 9th-grade students. Those who were part of the 9th grade in 2024, under the new curriculum, will now join the science, humanities, and business education streams in the 10th grade.

The education advisor criticised the previous curriculum, pointing out that it excluded higher mathematics and advanced science from the 9th and 10th grades.

“Without higher mathematics in the 9th grade, students could not pursue it in higher secondary education, creating problems in other subjects,” he said.

Wahiduddin also clarified that the decision to revert to the previous curriculum should not be seen as a step backward.

“We are going back because the earlier direction was incorrect,” he said.

He added that many adjustments would be made, including modifications to textbooks to ensure continuity in the curriculum.

The aim, he said, is to reduce the number of books and make subjects more focused.

“This will allow for more flexibility in the future while maintaining the integrity of the curriculum,” he added.