Dhaka, Jun 24 (V7N) – Education Minister Dr. ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon has said that heads of educational institutions will be held accountable and face legal action if incidents of cheating or question paper leaks are detected at their institutions.

He made the remarks while addressing a views-exchange meeting with education board secretaries at Azimpur in the capital on Wednesday.

The minister said the nature of examination malpractice has changed over time, making institutional accountability more important than ever.

"Suppose a 16-year-old SSC examinee is found cheating. As the student is a minor, it is not appropriate to impose severe punishment on him or her. In such cases, the responsibility lies with the head of the institution where the cheating occurred, and that person will be brought under the law," he said.

Dr. Milon also announced plans to strengthen academic supervision through mandatory in-house coaching programmes for students. He said the government is working to introduce a unified question paper system across the country in an effort to curb cheating and prevent question paper leaks.

The Education Minister further stated that action would be taken against certain teachers who, according to him, frequently resort to legal action over various issues, creating negative effects within the education sector.

Highlighting reforms in the examination system, he said the government is significantly reducing the time required to conduct public examinations and publish results.

"Previously, it took nearly a year to complete the SSC examination process and publish results. The current government is shortening that timeline," he said.

According to the minister, beginning in 2027, SSC examinations are expected to be held in January, while HSC results will be published by July 20.

Responding to a question regarding madrasa education, Dr. Milon emphasized that any allegations of abuse or torture of students in madrasas would be investigated and appropriate action would be taken.

"If complaints of student abuse are found to be true, action will be taken. In today's world, such misconduct cannot remain hidden. There are cameras everywhere, and incidents are quickly brought to public attention," he said.

The minister reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability and discipline throughout the country's education system.

END/SMA/AJ