Dual profession ban: controversy over MPO guidelines

Dec 18, 2025
Campus

File Photo: Ministry of Education (collected)

PNN News Desk, Dhaka

The newly issued “MPO Guidelines–2025” by the Ministry of Education have sparked a new wave of controversy among teachers in the country. The guideline strictly prohibits MPO-registered teachers and staff from holding multiple professions, leaving nearly 3,500 provincial teachers involved in journalism in severe uncertainty.

The guidelines, released on 7 December, state that MPO-registered teachers or staff cannot simultaneously work in journalism or lucrative professions like law. Violation of this directive may result in cancellation of MPO registration. Many teachers engaged in journalism alongside teaching feel uncertain about their professional identity and livelihood.

After the guideline was published, dissatisfaction spread among teacher-journalists across districts and sub-districts. They argue that journalism is not a full-time job, but rather a social and creative responsibility, often with nominal remuneration. They consider it unreasonable to classify it as a dual profession.

In response, two platforms—‘MPO-registered Teacher-Journalist Group’ and ‘Bangladesh Private Teacher-Journalist Rights Protection Forum’—have been formed. Leaders of these organizations have said they are preparing to file petitions in the High Court against the controversial parts of the guideline. Masud Hasan Badal, convener of one group, said that forcing teachers to stop journalism could weaken grassroots media and cause the country to lose talented writers and journalists.

Meanwhile, implementation efforts have begun at the field level. District education offices are requesting information on whether teachers are engaged in journalism or law, and officials say necessary action will be taken after verification according to the guideline.

Teacher-journalists question why journalism is prohibited while holding public office or other social responsibilities is not. They fear this decision may threaten not only individual professional freedom but also the future of local journalism.

Within teacher organizations, there is disagreement on the issue. Some see it as an initiative to maintain discipline and professional standards, while others believe it will create inequality and unrest among teachers.

Overall, MPO Guidelines–2025 have become a central point of debate over teaching, journalism, and freedom of expression.