Action needed to stop irregularities

Distribution of free textbook in primary and secondary levels is a great programme of the government. The government achieved some admiration for the initiative.

However, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) claimed that irregularities and corruption took place in various levels during formulation of textbook, printing and distribution of National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) books.

The international watchdog in its report said, "NCTB could not become effective organization yet. Although it’s an autonomous organization but there are no specific rules for them."

TIB opined that the there is a lock of good governance in almost every steps of formulation of textbooks. The findings of the study titled ‘National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB): Challenges of Good Governance and a Way-out in its Manuscript Formulation and Publication Management’ were revealed at a press conference at TIB head office in the capital.

“The process of NCTB’s textbook formulation is unclear - its manuscripts are not written properly while political and ideological influence of a specific group are present (in the contents of textbooks),” the study reveals.

It finds that there is lack of good governance in 16 out of 20 levels. Even, the NCTB officials are involved in these irregularities.

Following the matter, Dr Iftekharuzzaman said that NCTB is being forced to run its activities as there is no necessary ministry rule for the management of NCTB.

He stressed the need for formulation of a committee involving national and international recognized experts to find a way to make the NCTB as a commission so that the agency can work independently in formulation and publication of textbooks.

The overall picture of formulation of textbook was highlighted in the programme. Changes take place in textbooks with change of every government. Sometimes textbooks are changed avoiding curriculum.  The study also said that corruption and irregularities are found in the process of textbook publication and giving work orders.

The TIB report also said a part of NCTB informed some organization about the anticipated rate before announcing tender of textbook printing. Later, these organization submit tender discussion with each others. Several types of irregularities were also mentioned in the report.

The overall picture of TIB in the regard shows that there is no accountability in the government institution. If there would be accountability then such irregularities and corruption could not take place.

The alleged political influence in the process of textbook formulation is really alarming. Complaint over financial corruption in formulation, printing and distribution of textbooks is criminal offence. It's not acceptable. Immediate steps are must in this regard for the sake of government's good name. The concerned authority should take quick steps to end theses irregularities.



risingbd/Dhaka/Nov 15, 2017/Ali Nowsher/Nasim