No ‘silent expulsion’ in public exams: Edu Minister

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon has announced that the controversial practice of “silent expulsion” will not be allowed in upcoming public examinations, assuring students of a fair and transparent process.

Speaking after a stakeholder meeting on Saturday, Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon said that expelling students without proper legal procedures is unlawful and unacceptable.

He confirmed that he has instructed authorities to immediately remove Clause 29 from the existing education board policy, which had allowed such actions.

The meeting was held to ensure the smooth conduct of the 2026 Secondary School Certificate (SSC), Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations.

Expressing concern over the provision, the minister said there is no legal basis for “silent expulsion.”

He pointed out that even under the Public Examinations Act 1980, no such rule existed. Any disciplinary action, he emphasized, must follow due process and be handled transparently within the examination center.

He further clarified that allegations such as cheating must be proven during the exam itself and no student should face punishment without proper evidence or procedure. Expelling students while they are away from the exam hall, he said, is entirely unacceptable.

Addressing recent concerns circulating on social media, the minister explained that confusion may have arisen from outdated provisions in policies dating back to 1961.

He added that the Inter-Education Board Coordination Committee will soon issue an official clarification to resolve any misunderstandings.

Regarding the exam schedule, Milon said that HSC and equivalent exams will begin on July 2 and conclude within five weeks. Preparations are also complete for SSC and equivalent exams, which are set to start on April 21.

Reassuring students, he noted that stricter measures introduced this year are aimed not at examinees but at teachers and exam center officials, to ensure accountability and proper conduct.

The government’s focus, he said, is on improving education quality rather than penalizing students.

Highlighting reforms in the sector, the minister mentioned that, for the first time, written examinations have been conducted by Non-Government Teachers Registration and Certification Authority (NTRCA) for recruiting head teachers and principals, a move expected to strengthen the overall education system.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from Ministry of Education, chairpersons of various education boards and via virtual participation, deputy commissioners, police superintendents, upazila nirbahi officers and teacher representatives from across the country.