The Hidden Struggles of Being a Student in Bangladesh

 

photo: ADB/ Shafiqul Alam Kiron

Photo: ULAB website

Being a student in Bangladesh comes with many challenges. While we often hear about struggles like exam pressure and financial problems, there are other issues that are less talked about but still important. Let’s explore these hidden struggles that many students face.

1. The Pressure of Private Tuition
In Bangladesh, private tuition is a common part of education. Many students attend extra classes outside of school hours to prepare for exams, even though they already attend regular classes. This culture of private tuition is so strong that it is seen as necessary for doing well in exams, especially for high school students preparing for the SSC and HSC exams.
However, this creates an inequality between students who can afford tuition and those who cannot. According to a report from BRAC, around 50% of Bangladeshi students attend private tuition, but many from low-income families can’t afford it, which affects their education.

2. The Gender Gap in Education Choices
Although more girls are going to school and university than ever before, there is still a gap in the subjects that boys and girls choose to study. Girls are often encouraged to study subjects like arts, humanities, and healthcare, while boys are encouraged to pursue fields like engineering, business, and technology.
A study by the University of Dhaka found that although women are enrolling in universities more than ever, they are still underrepresented in science, technology, and engineering courses. This limits their career options and keeps them in traditional roles.

3. Lack of Critical Thinking in the Classroom
One of the most significant problems in Bangladesh’s education system is the focus on memorization instead of critical thinking. Students are taught to memorize information for exams rather than encouraged to ask questions, think deeply, or solve problems. As a result, many students graduate without being able to think critically about the world around them.
A report from The Daily Star in 2021 revealed that many employers find graduates from Bangladeshi universities lack problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This is a major issue since these skills are crucial in today's fast-changing world.

4. The Challenge of Digital Distractions
With the rise of online education, students in Bangladesh are spending more time on their phones and computers. While this helps with learning, it also leads to a lot of distractions. Many students get distracted by social media, games, and videos, making it harder for them to focus on their studies.

A survey by BRAC in 2022 found that 72% of students said they are distracted by social media or online entertainment during online classes. This affects their learning and results in less productive study time.

5. The Uncertainty After Graduation
After finishing their studies, many students in Bangladesh face the harsh reality of a tough job market. Even if they have a degree, it’s not easy to find a good job. According to a report by the World Bank, youth unemployment in Bangladesh is high, with many university graduates struggling to find work.

The main reason is that the skills taught in schools and universities do not always match what employers need. Many graduates are not prepared for the real-world job market, which leads to frustration and uncertainty about their future.

6. Mental Health Issues and the Stigma Around Them
Mental health is an issue that is often ignored in Bangladesh, especially for students. Many students face stress, anxiety, and depression but are afraid to talk about it because of the stigma. According to a Bangladesh Mental Health Foundation report, around 40% of students in Bangladesh experience mental health problems, but only a small percentage seek help due to fear of being judged.

The lack of mental health support in schools and universities makes it even harder for students to deal with their struggles. This can lead to more severe problems if not addressed.

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By acknowledging these overlooked struggles, we can break the cycle of pressure and create an environment where students aren't just surviving, but truly thriving—unlocking their creativity, confidence, and the courage to shape their own futures.