The rise of educational technology (EdTech) is reshaping the way Bangladesh learns, moving far beyond virtual classrooms to embrace competitive exams, job preparation, skill-building, and even virtual reality. With internet access expanding across the country, rural and urban learners alike are seizing opportunities to upgrade their knowledge through online platforms.

EdTech platforms first appeared in Bangladesh more than a decade ago, but the COVID-19 pandemic marked a turning point. Schools and universities rapidly shifted to cloud-based platforms like Google Classroom and Zoom, while local startups emerged to meet the demand.

Today, Bangladesh is home to 416 active EdTech startups, according to Tracxn. Among the pioneers, 10 Minute School and Shikho stand out, having attracted millions of dollars in foreign investment. Others, like Ostad, drew attention with local funding through Shark Tank Bangladesh.

A large share of Bangladesh’s EdTech industry targets SSC and HSC candidates, as well as university admission seekers. For instance, Apar’s Classroom - now serving over 9 lakh students - offers online exams and preparatory courses. “The tests were tougher than I expected, but they showed me how seriously I need to prepare for my HSC,” said Tania Rahman, a student from Narsingdi.

Traditional coaching centers have also adapted. Utkorsho, a concern of Udvash, now offers digital courses for university admission, blending physical coaching with online alternatives.

With 2.66 million people unemployed in Bangladesh as of Q3 2025 (BBS), EdTech platforms are turning to career readiness. Live MCQ has become popular for government job seekers, while platforms such as Upskill, BYLCx, Muktopaath, Interactive Cares, CoderTrust, Bohubrihi, and Ghoori Learning provide professional training for the digital workforce.

Mehedi Hasan, an MBA student, University of Dhaka, said, “Digital platforms helped me understand how the same syllabus can vary across job markets. It gave me direction in preparing for my career.”

Virtual Reality and Beyond

Virtual reality (VR) is also entering the classroom. Nerdiz has set up the country’s first private VR learning corner in collaboration with a major NGO. “We want to expand VR-based experiential learning across schools,” said founder Pradeepta Kumar Saha. He noted, however, that high infrastructure costs and the need for teacher training remain significant hurdles.

Globally, AI is transforming EdTech, and Bangladesh is following suit. Ostad has launched Mocku, an AI-powered mock interview platform, while Nerdiz is preparing to integrate AI into its learning ecosystem. The trend mirrors global innovations such as Khan Academy’s AI tutor, Khanmigo.

Niche Platforms Rising

Several niche players are carving out space in the EdTech market. Science Bee focuses on science-related content, while Mojaru, Konnect, and CholPori create interactive learning for children. Alokito Teachers provides training for educators to embrace digital methods, and Sohopathi connects teachers and learners through network-based insights.

Bangladeshi students are also turning to international apps like Duolingo, Coursera, and Udemy for global education. BRAC University student Muna Rahman, preparing for higher studies in Germany, said, “These apps make learning fun and engaging. Seeing Bangla included in the app is also special.”

From e-classes to VR corners, Bangladesh’s EdTech sector is diversifying at a remarkable pace-- offering hope not only for students but also for job seekers, professionals, and educators striving to adapt in a rapidly changing world.

The writer is a contributor to the Daily Sun.