The education ministry has decided to remove “Sharifa’s Story” from the textbook of class seven, and will replace it with a new story about the Hijra community in the next year’s textbook.
In this regard, the education ministry has recently sent a letter to the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB), officially informing them on the matter.
On the issue, NCTB Chairman (Routine Duties) Professor Md Moshiuzzaman said, “We have received a letter asking us to amend, enhance or keep new stories in its place. However, we will keep a story about the Hijra community there.”
Earlier this year, the new curriculum’s textbook of seventh grade “History and Social Science” sparked many debates. The controversy began over a story titled “Sharifa’s story,” which depicts the transition of a boy to a girl.
Following widespread national discussion, the Ministry of Education formed a five-member committee to review the story. Five months later, in May, the committee recommended withdrawal of this particular story.
