PM Sheikh Hasina: Educational institute will reopen only after coronavirus crisis is over

CNI Desk: After unlocking the economy, Sheikh Hasina says students can go back to classes until after the coronavirus crisis is over.

The prime minister made the remarks at an event marking the publication of the results of SSC and equivalent examinations on Sunday. She joined the event via video conferencing from the Ganabhaban in Dhaka.

Education Minister Dipu Moni, while announcing the results later in a Facebook live video, said the resumption of classes and exams is uncertain as it depends on how the situation turns.

“We’ve published the results of SSC, Dakhil and equivalent exams. Maybe we won’t open the colleges now. We can’t open the educational institutions,” Hasina said, suggesting that the colleges cannot start the process of enrolling the successful SSC candidates anytime soon.

“Because we want to proceed gradually so that the students don’t get infected with the coronavirus. They are our future. We can’t throw their future into uncertainty,” she said.    

“That’s why we are not opening the educational institutions now. We will do it gradually once we overcome the situation,” Hasina added.

The prime minister advised the students to use the time they have now.

“It’s a good opportunity to study. Because there isn’t much work to do now. They can learn many things,” she said.

Hasina also asked the students not to lose hope. “Never forget that we are a victorious nation. Bangladesh achieved victory in the Liberation War.”