Free Wi-Fi for Students and Tuition-Free Education for Girls up to Undergraduate Level Proposed in Budget

The proposed national budget for the 2026–27 fiscal year is set to introduce several major initiatives for the education sector, including free Wi-Fi access for students in educational institutions and free education for girls up to the undergraduate (pass course) level.

Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury is scheduled to present the Tk 938,000 crore budget in Parliament on Thursday (June 11). Education reforms and digital learning initiatives are expected to be among the key highlights of the proposal.

Under the proposed measures, students from low-income families will receive free school uniforms, shoes, and school bags to help reduce dropout rates. The government also plans to provide assistive technologies and educational materials free of charge for children with special needs.

To support technology-driven learning, the budget includes plans to expand free Wi-Fi services in educational institutions across the country. Additional initiatives include the “One Teacher, One Tab” program, the establishment of multimedia classrooms, and the gradual introduction of artificial intelligence (AI)-based learning systems.

The government also intends to launch and gradually expand a nationwide mid-day meal program to improve student nutrition and overall health. Special attention will be given to sanitation, hygiene, and healthcare facilities for female students and teachers.

Furthermore, the budget proposes measures to engage highly educated and skilled Bangladeshis living abroad in the country’s education and research sectors, allowing them to contribute their expertise and global experience.

Education experts believe these initiatives could significantly improve educational access, promote digital inclusion, reduce dropout rates, and strengthen the overall quality of learning in Bangladesh.