Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed hope that, following the increase in house rent allowances, the agitating MPO (Monthly Pay Order) teachers will return to classrooms with renewed enthusiasm and play a vital role in shaping the future generation.
On Tuesday, the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing stated that from 1 November this year, house rent allowances for MPO teachers and staff working in private educational institutions will be increased by 7.5% of their basic salary. Additionally, from July next year, the allowance will be increased by another 7.5%.
The statement mentioned that the Chief Adviser considers the demands of the teachers and staff reasonable. Teachers had been protesting for a long time for the house rent increase, and the Chief Adviser held several meetings regarding the matter. The meetings included Education Adviser Professor Dr. C.R. Abrar, Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, and Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud.
The Chief Adviser noted that Bangladesh’s economy has been weakened by 15 years of corruption and embezzlement. Although the economy has stabilized somewhat since the caretaker government took charge, it is not yet feasible to provide a 20% increase in basic salary for house rent allowance. Therefore, the government made this decision based on practical considerations.