100 teachers to get Tk1 lakh award on World Teachers’ Day: Minister

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon today (6 September) said the government has planned to give Tk1 lakh each to 100 selected teachers as an award on the occasion of World Teachers’ Day to honour their contributions.

He disclosed the plan to journalists before the first meeting of the National Steering Committee, formed to organise World Teachers’ Day celebrations, at his ministry’s conference room in the secretariat.

“Our teachers’ community is the main driving force behind change and progress in the education system. Our primary objective is to properly recognise, reward and encourage those doing outstanding work at the grassroots level. On World Teachers’ Day, October 5, we want to remember and honour the contributions of teachers across the country,” he said.

He added that work is underway to finalise a policy for selecting the best teachers, noting that previously only 12 teachers were given Tk2 lakh each, totalling Tk24 lakh.

“But our Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s goal is to ensure due respect for teachers. In line with this objective, the government has decided to expand the scope of the initiative and recognize skilled and meritorious teachers across the country. A total of 100 selected teachers will receive Tk1 lakh each along with awards and recognition,” he said.

Regarding a code of conduct for teachers, the minister said teachers illuminate society through their own educated and exemplary behavior.

However, he said necessary policies and guidelines are being reviewed in line with international standards to prevent inappropriate activities on social media and protect the image of the education system.

Regarding outstanding dues owed to retired teachers, he said the overdue portion of teachers’ own contributions from 2016 through August 2026 has already been paid.

Steps are also being taken to gradually pay the remaining grant money payable by the government, he added.

Responding to a question from journalists at the meeting, Secondary and Higher Education Secretary Abdul Khaleque said work is underway to include non-government teachers in the new pay scale.

Teachers will receive benefits at the same proportionate rate as government employees, he said.

Jatiya Sangsad Whip Rakibul Islam, senior officials of the ministry and members of the national steering committee were present at the meeting.