Unchecked expansion of kindergartens raises concerns over standards

In Dhaka’s Aftabnagar area, private educational institutions operate in unusually close proximity. In Block B alone, Quality Learners’ School is surrounded by several others, including Jaynul Abedin School and College (around 400 metres away) and Evercare International School, with at least a few more schools functioning within a short distance.

Similar clusters can be seen in nearby Banasree and other parts of the capital, where multiple kindergartens operate from rented buildings, often within limited space. Observers say this reflects a broader trend of rapid, largely unregulated expansion of private schooling.

Across the country, kindergarten-type institutions have multiplied in recent years, raising concerns about oversight, quality standards, infrastructure, and fees. Many are reportedly operating without full registration or with only provisional permission.

Data from BANBEIS indicate that Bangladesh has 26,461 kindergarten schools, employing 1,72,405 teachers and serving 48,73,375 students.

However, Directorate of Primary Education estimates suggest the number could be closer to 34,000. Of these, about 1,000 are formally registered, while roughly 5,000 have operational permission.

Field observations suggest that many schools operate from rented premises with limited space and small classrooms, often lacking essential facilities such as playgrounds. In some cases, institutions operate under the title “School and College” despite not meeting the required standards. Promotional materials frequently advertise facilities that are not available in reality.

There are also allegations that some institutions register their students under other schools in order to enable them to sit for public examinations.

Khaleda Begum, founding principal of Jaynul Abedin School and College, acknowledged that her institution conducts classes while registering students under another school. 

She added that many students enrol due to the comparatively poor environment in nearby MPO-listed schools, which often lack adequate facilities and resources.

Guardians express frustration over limited options. 

Sajedul Islam, a parent whose child attends a nearby school, said families are often compelled to enrol their children in such institutions due to a lack of better alternatives.

“One of the major problems is the frequent turnover of teachers,” he said, adding, “As a result, students struggle to adapt, as each teacher follows a different teaching approach.”

Parents also report financial pressure from multiple fees imposed by schools. Admission charges, session fees in some cases, and additional costs for uniforms, notebooks, and books add to the burden.

A guardian of an eighth-grade student, speaking on condition of anonymity, alleged that notebooks priced at Tk35-40 in the market are sold for as much as Tk70 after being branded by schools. “We are compelled to pay,” the guardian said.

There are further allegations that some schools pressure parents into purchasing grammar books and guidebooks at inflated prices.

A research article titled “Transforming Kindergarten Education: Unpacking Teachers' Challenges and Innovative Solutions” highlights that many kindergarten teachers face difficulties due to limited familiarity with child-centred teaching methods and the demands of early childhood education.

In terms of policy, non-government primary school registration rules were first introduced in 2023. These were later amended in 2025 through a gazette issued by the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education. According to the regulations, kindergarten schools must be established on a minimum of three decimals of land in metropolitan areas, eight decimals in municipalities, and 30 decimals in other regions — whether operating from rented or permanent premises. However, most institutions reportedly fail to meet these requirements.

The education minister has recently announced plans to introduce a comprehensive registration system for kindergarten schools.

An additional secretary at the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, speaking anonymously, said a recent stakeholder meeting addressed the issue. 

“Many schools have shown limited interest in registering. However, we intend to ensure compliance and bring them under the regulatory system,” he said.

Several organisations represent the sector, including the Bangladesh Kindergarten Association (BKA), the Bangladesh Kindergarten School and College Oikko Parishad, and the Bangladesh Kindergarten School Forum, alongside various regional bodies.

Md Mizanur Rahman Sarker, secretary of the BKA, claimed the organisation represents nearly 10,000 schools. 

Addressing concerns over low registration rates, he said the process is ongoing and that many institutions had previously remained unregistered due to bureaucratic complexities.

“Institutions are now more encouraged to register, as participation in scholarship examinations will require it,” he said.

He added that kindergarten institutions contribute roughly 30% to the country’s primary education sector. 

“We receive free textbooks from the government but little additional support. Despite this, we continue to assist in strengthening primary education,” he noted.

Mizanur also emphasised that formal training for kindergarten teachers could significantly enhance their contribution.

M Iqbal Bahar Chowdhury, chairman of the Bangladesh Kindergarten School and College Oikko Parishad, said their organisation has applied for registration in accordance with government directives.

“I have instructed member schools to obtain teaching permission. Many have already received approval, while others are awaiting decisions. Some have completed the registration process,” he said.

Currently, the registration process for kindergarten schools is conducted offline, with fees paid manually. This has discouraged many institutions from applying, stakeholders say.

Sarker Abul Kalam Azad, an education officer at the Directorate of Primary Education, said the process will soon be fully digitised.

“The registration system will be moved online, and fees will be payable digitally. From next year, registration will be mandatory for participation in scholarship examinations,” he said.