The illegal trade of note and guidebooks in Bangladesh has been thriving for years, despite a ban. Over the last 13 years, a syndicate has earned around 20,000 crore taka through this business. In 2008, the High Court banned note and guidebooks to promote creative learning, but the ban has not been effectively enforced.
Breaking this law can lead to up to seven years in prison or a fine of 25,000 taka, yet some publishers openly sell guidebooks under titles like “Eker Vetor Shob” (“All-in-One”).
Reports reveal that over 500 government officers, including members of the BCS Education Cadres, are secretly working for these publishing companies on monthly salaries. They help write these illegal books. Officials from the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) and other education authorities are also accused of supporting this trade.
This illegal activity isn’t limited to rural areas; it operates in the capital city too. However, no legal action has been taken against anyone involved.
Each year, the government provides free textbooks to students on January 1, banning the use of any non-approved books. Still, these illegal note and guidebooks reach the market before the free textbooks are even printed.
Experts say urgent action is needed to stop this illegal trade, hold those responsible accountable, and protect the education system from exploitation. This unchecked trade not only undermines the education system but also hampers the creative growth of the nation’s future generations.
Source: Daily Ittefaq
