GED (General Education Development) courses in universities focus on fundamental areas like math, science, English, Bangla, and social studies. They help students without a high school diploma meet basic academic requirements for higher education or career advancement. In Bangladesh, mostly private universities like BRACU, NSU, and ULAB have introduced this type of course.
Why Do GED Courses Matter?
Bangladeshi universities provide GED courses to give students a broad and well-rounded education. These courses expose students to a range of areas, including the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences, increasing their knowledge outside their core subjects of study. They aim to improve critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, all of which are important for personal and professional growth. By complying with global academic standards, these courses provide students with broad knowledge and practical skills, allowing them to effectively address real-world situations.
Is it worth it?
Private universities are very costly. Even now, education in Bangladesh is seen as a luxury, not a right. In this case, taking courses outside of core courses causes unwarranted problems. There are other problems, like:
Limited time
Many students choose private universities because they offer open credit systems. This allows students to finish their undergraduate degree in less time by taking more credits. However, with GED courses, this isn’t always possible, as extra credits are added for these courses.
Financial issue
Private universities are very expensive. Taking extra courses adds even more to the cost, often making it much higher than the original amount. Additionally, many students who struggle to do well in exams have to retake the course, and they must pay the full amount again.
Limited recognition
Some employers or colleges may not value a GED as much as a high school diploma. They may prefer candidates with a regular high school diploma.
Affect result
Many students don’t have a good understanding or interest in subjects like history, philosophy, psychology, Bangla, math, etc., but they are good at their core subjects. This can affect their performance. Additionally, students need to give equal attention to GED courses as they do to their major subjects, which divides their study time. As a result, they can’t fully focus on their core subjects.
Lack of Social Experience
GED programs focus mainly on academics, so students miss out on social experiences and important life skills.
Affect extracurricular
Universities offer many clubs for students, which can help them in the future. There are also many business competitions held throughout the year. However, due to a lack of time, students often struggle to balance academics and extracurricular activities. If GED courses were excluded, students would have more free time to explore other opportunities, such as business competitions, joining clubs, cultural activities, and more.
Although GED courses have helped students improve their academics in various ways, for many students, they act as a blessing as they can easily raise their CGPA with them. However, for others, these courses are a waste of money and time. These courses should be offered as free electives, allowing students to choose whether they want to take them or focus on their major courses and better utilize their time.
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Writer
Sadia Noor Orpita
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE