What subjects are taught in elementary school in Bangladesh?

I’m trying to understand the Bangladeshi education system more deeply, especially since I’ve heard that primary education there has undergone significant reforms recently. Given that elementary school (which covers Grades 1–5) lays the groundwork for a child’s entire learning journey, I’m curious about how the curriculum balances academic foundational skills, cultural values, and modern educational priorities. Specifically, what subjects are mandatory for all public and regulated private schools nationwide under the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB)? Are there regional variations or experimental additions, and how do government policies emphasize subjects like Bengali, English, math, science, and social studies? Also, considering Bangladesh’s emphasis on digital literacy and national identity, are newer subjects like coding or ethics increasingly integrated into the core curriculum? I’m particularly interested in the official subject list and any rationale behind its design to ensure it prepares students not just for secondary education but also for local and global challenges.

In elementary school (Grades 1-5, often referred to as Primary School) in Bangladesh, the following subjects are taught according to the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB):

1. Bangla (First Language): Focuses on reading, writing, grammar, literature, and comprehension.
2. English (Second Language): Develops listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
3. Mathematics: Covers arithmetic, geometry, measurement, algebra basics, and problem-solving.
4. General Science: Introduces fundamental concepts in life science, physical science, and earth science; often integrated in lower grades before specializing slightly in higher primary grades.
5. Social Studies (Including Bangladesh and Global Studies): Encompasses history (especially of Bangladesh), geography (local, national, and global), civics, culture, and basic economics.
6. Religious Education: Mandatory instruction based on the student’s faith:
   • Islam: For Muslim students (covering Quran, Hadith, Fiqh, Akhlaq).
   • Hinduism: For Hindu students.
   • Buddhism: For Buddhist students.
   • Christianity: For Christian students.
7. Arts and Crafts: Develops creativity through drawing, painting, music, dance, drama, and handcrafts.
8. Physical Education (PE): Promotes physical fitness, sports skills, teamwork, and health awareness.
9. Work-Oriented Education / Practical Arts / Gardening: Teaches basic practical skills, often including gardening, simple handcrafts, or vocational awareness appropriate for the age group.
10. Moral Education / Value Education: Instills core values like honesty, respect, responsibility, patriotism, and social responsibility.

Curriculum implementation aims to provide a well-rounded foundation focusing on Bangladeshi identity, language proficiency, numeracy, scientific curiosity, social awareness, spiritual/religious grounding, creativity, physical well-being, and ethical development. Each subject follows textbooks and syllabi approved by the NCTB, delivered through a combination of classroom instruction, practical activities, and sometimes projects.