Are Mobile Phones and Technology Affecting HSC Results?

The results of the 2026 HSC examination have raised new concerns about our education system. This year, the overall pass rate was only 52.12%, and 40,084 students achieved GPA-5. In 2024, the pass rate was 77.78%. This sharp decline is really worrying.

The question is, why are students getting such poor results? Are they losing interest in studies, or are there problems in our education system? At the same time, we should also think about the excessive use of mobile phones and technology.

Nowadays, almost every student has a smartphone. Facebook, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram take up a lot of students’ time. Many students spend hours watching reels and short videos. They often take their phones for a few minutes but end up wasting one or two hours. As a result, they get less time to study and lose concentration.

However, we cannot blame technology alone. Technology can help students learn new things and improve their skills if they use it properly. Teachers, educational institutions, students and parents all have important roles in improving education.

This year’s HSC results are not only disappointing for students but also a warning for our education system. We need to find the real reasons behind this poor result instead of blaming only the students. Students should learn how to use technology properly, and educational institutions should ensure quality education.

We must remember that mobile phones and technology are tools for progress, not for falling behind. GPA-5 is not the only measure of success in life. Real success comes from knowledge, skills and the ability to move forward.

Shuva Karmakar
President
Bangladesh Tarun Column Lekhok Forum
BRUR Unit