Following the victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, preparations for the formation of the new government are nearing completion. Senior party leaders are currently engaged in consultations over the composition of the cabinet and the allocation of key portfolios. Among these, the Ministry of Education has emerged as one of the most closely watched appointments, drawing interest from political observers, education professionals and the wider public.
Three names have featured prominently in discussions: Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam, Dr A N M Ehsanul Haq Milon and Osman Faruk.
Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam
currently serves as Education Secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and is the Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh Open University. He previously held the position of General Secretary of the White Panel at the University of Dhaka and served as Secretary General of the University Teachers’ Association of Bangladesh (UTAB).
With longstanding involvement in teachers’ professional movements, he is regarded by many within academic circles as an experienced and respected figure. Although he did not receive the party nomination for Bagerhat-4 (Morelganj–Sharankhola), party insiders suggest that his inclusion in the cabinet as a technocrat remains a possibility.
Dr A N M Ehsanul Haq Milon, a former State Minister for Education, secured victory in Chandpur-1 (Kachua), receiving
133,162 votes under the Dhanshree symbol. Given his prior experience within the education ministry and familiarity with administrative processes, his name has been widely mentioned in connection with the post of Education Minister.
Party sources indicate that his ministerial experience and organisational capacity are considered significant assets.
Osman Faruk, who previously served as Education Minister, won the Kishoreganj-3 (Karimganj–Taraile) constituency.
As a former head of the ministry, he is viewed as having considerable administrative experience. While some observers have questioned aspects of his local-level political engagement during challenging periods for the party, his seniority and long-standing involvement in national politics ensure that his name remains under consideration.
According to party sources, the BNP has largely finalised its cabinet framework. Final decisions are expected to take into account a combination of experience, political contribution and electoral performance. Until the official announcement is made, however, speculation over who will assume the Education portfolio is likely to continue within political and policy circles.
