No need for group separation at SSC level: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said there is no need for group separation in class nine and all students can take up same subjects up to Secondary School Certificate (SSC) level.

"To me, there's no need for this group separation at all… everyone can study all subjects until SSC. It's better to have group separation after SSC, at least then students can have the opportunity to hone their merits," she said while giving away the Prime Minister Gold Medal-2018 to 172 meritorious students from public and private universities for outstanding academic achievements.

She said many countries including the USA do not have this kind of group separation. PM said during the Pakistan regime, the then president Ayub Khan introduced this system in 1963.

"I think it is better to not have this," she added.

She also said that all subjects are now related to science and there is nothing beyond the purview of science.

She emphasised the need for diversification of education which will pave way for employment abroad and advance the country simultaneously.

UGC Chairman Professor Dr Kazi Shahidullah presided over the ceremony. Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni, Education Secretary Mahbub Hossain also spoke at the programme.