The government of Bangladesh has implemented significant changes to its educational curriculum by revising its primary and secondary school textbooks for the 2025 academic year. These revisions include a controversial reassessment of the nation’s history, particularly regarding the declaration of independence during the Liberation War of 1971.

Removal of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Titles

The new textbooks explicitly credit Ziaur Rahman with the declaration of Bangladesh’s independence on March 26, 1971. Additionally, they note that on March 27, Rahman made another declaration on behalf of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, commonly referred to as Bangabandhu. This marks a departure from earlier narratives that primarily attributed the independence declaration to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

According to Prof. AKM Reazul Hassan, chairman of the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB), this adjustment is part of an effort to present historical events in a more fact-based manner. The shift underscores a broader move to address what some stakeholders have described as “exaggerated and imposed history.”

One of the most debated aspects of the new textbooks is the removal of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s title as the “Father of the Nation.” This change has stirred controversy among various political and academic circles. Critics argue that such edits undermine the significant role played by Mujibur Rahman in the nation’s founding, while proponents claim the revisions align with historical accuracy.

The changes reflect a recurring pattern in Bangladesh’s historical narratives, which have often been influenced by the political party in power. This underscores the dynamic interplay between politics and history in shaping national identity.

Writer and researcher Rakhal Raha, who participated in the textbook revision process, stated that the revisions aim to eliminate inaccuracies and unfounded claims. He noted that previous assertions, such as Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declaring independence via a wireless message while under arrest by the Pakistani army, lacked substantiated evidence.

The revision team’s objective was to base the textbooks on factual, documented history, free from partisan embellishments. This perspective highlights the ongoing debate about how historical events are recorded and taught to future generations.

Historical Context: The Liberation War of 1971

To understand the significance of these changes, it is crucial to revisit the historical context of Bangladesh’s independence. The Liberation War of 1971 was a pivotal moment in South Asian history, resulting in the emergence of Bangladesh as a sovereign nation after nine months of conflict with Pakistan.

The declaration of independence is one of the most debated aspects of this history. Traditionally, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman has been hailed as the primary leader of the independence movement. However, Ziaur Rahman, a prominent military officer and later the country’s president, also played a significant role during the war. These dual narratives have long fueled political and academic debates.

Political Influence on Historical Narratives

The evolution of Bangladesh’s textbooks reflects the influence of successive governments on historical narratives. Different administrations have altered the portrayal of key figures and events to align with their ideological agendas.

Under the Awami League, textbooks emphasized Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s leadership, including his title as the “Father of the Nation.” Conversely, administrations led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) have often highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s contributions, creating a shifting narrative landscape. This latest revision underlines the ongoing struggle to establish a definitive version of Bangladesh’s history that transcends political bias.

The changes have elicited strong reactions from various segments of society. Supporters of the revisions argue that they correct historical inaccuracies and provide students with a more balanced perspective. Critics, however, view the removal of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s title and other edits as an attempt to diminish his legacy. Academics have also expressed mixed views. Some see the changes as a step toward depoliticizing education, while others worry about the implications of such revisions on national unity and identity.

Broader Implications for Bangladesh

The textbook revisions extend beyond the classroom, reflecting broader societal and political dynamics. They underscore the challenges of reconciling differing historical perspectives in a nation marked by deep political divides. Furthermore, the changes highlight the role of education in shaping collective memory and national identity. As the next generation of Bangladeshis learns from these revised textbooks, the long-term impact on their understanding of history remains to be seen.

The introduction of new textbooks in Bangladesh represents a significant moment in the nation’s educational and historical landscape. By crediting Ziaur Rahman with the declaration of independence and removing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s title as the “Father of the Nation,” the revisions have sparked widespread debate. These changes underscore the complex interplay between history, politics, and education in shaping a nation’s identity.

As Bangladesh continues to navigate its historical narratives, the importance of fostering critical thinking and evidence-based learning among students cannot be overstated. The ongoing dialogue surrounding these textbook revisions serves as a testament to the dynamic nature of history and its enduring relevance in contemporary society.