Editorial

Opting out of science studies

Stem the tide of regression
A study by the Bangladesh Bureau of Educational Information and Statistics (Banbeis) shows that over the period of last 15 years there has been a decline, particularly at SSC and HSC levels in science education compared to studies in other subjects. The number of science examinees has decreased by 14 percent. In 2005, out of a total number of SSC examinees, 30 percent offered science whereas in 1991 it was 44 percent. The shift has been towards social sciences like business study introduced at the SSC level only in 1998. A worse scenario exists at the HSC level: only 23 percent of the HSC examinees last year appeared from science group.

This is the result of lack of adequate support for the spread of science education. There are hardly any proper physical facilities by way of science laboratories and access to quality teaching staff.

The importance of science education in the modern day world can be overlooked only to our peril. The need for science education is twice more significant since the nation is entering a phase of development where its success will be more and more dependent on manpower who are technically and scientifically qualified.

If we are to improve upon this downward trend in the choice of science, the government not only has to ensure proper physical facilities including availability of trained and qualified teachers right from the school level but also provide adequate incentives for the teachers. More avenues will have to be made available to upcoming scientists and people educated in science and technology so that they are able to make effective use of their acquired skills and expertise.