STAR REPORT

The ongoing strike by assistant teachers in government primary schools has severely disrupted annual exams across the country, leaving thousands of students uncertain about their academic future.

While some schools managed to hold exams with support from headteachers, office staff, and guardians, many others were forced to suspend them.

The strike, which began on Monday as a work stoppage, escalated into a full shutdown yesterday, as teachers pushed for better pay and promotions.

Amid the disruptions, the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education issued a press release warning that teachers who continue to obstruct the exam process will face legal action under government service laws, conduct regulations, and criminal law.

The impact of the strike has been particularly severe in Noakhali and Lakshmipur, where 1,985 primary schools have been affected. Only a few schools have managed to conduct exams, relying on headteachers and guardians.

During a visit to Noakhali Police Lines Government Primary School, our district correspondent found students playing outside as teachers joined the strike.

Senior Assistant Teacher Mallika Begum said that while some exams were conducted with help from the night guard, tests for classes three, four, and five had to be postponed.

At Lakshminarayanpur Model Government Primary School, fifth-grader Jannatul Ferdous said, “I came to school prepared for the exam, but I found out the teachers wouldn’t be conducting it. So, I’m going to go home.”

A guardian named Laxmi Nari, 30, said, “I have invested the whole year

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