DHAKA, March 31 (Reuters) - Bangladesh is ⁠considering introducing partial online classes in schools as part of ⁠austerity measures to ease pressure from the global energy crisis and ‌domestic constraints. Officials cited rising fuel import costs and supply uncertainties ​stemming from instability in the Middle East, which ⁠have driven global oil prices ⁠higher. The plan would introduce a hybrid system combining online and in-person classes to ⁠reduce ‌energy use while maintaining academic continuity, the minister said. Citing a ⁠recent survey, Hoque said about 55% of ​students and guardians support a mixed model, though he warned that fully online classes could increase social isolation. Bangladesh ​is also seeking more than $2.5 billion in ‌external financing to support fuel and liquefied ​natural gas imports, amid rising energy costs and mounting pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

Source: The Star March 31, 2026 12:39 UTC