The upcoming budget should increase allocation in the education sector to make up for the losses during the Covid-19 pandemic, demanded Campaign For Popular Education (CAMPE), an education advocacy and campaign network, yesterday.

CAMPE, in a memorandum submitted to Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal, demanded at least 20 percent of the budget for the education sector, blended learning approach for all institutions and uninterrupted internet services, said CAMPE deputy director KM Enamul Hoque.

It also demanded introduction of special stipend for female students who were victims of child marriage during the pandemic so that they can continue their education.

The rights group proposed setting up a separate commission to appoint teachers.

CAMPE also made recommendations for a separate pay scale so that dynamic and talented young individuals are encouraged to take teaching as a profession.

The budget allocation for the education sector made up 11.91 percent of the total outlay in the 2020-21 fiscal year.

The share of the education in the GDP stood at 2.08 percent in the previous fiscal year.

The minister is scheduled to place the budget for the 2022-23 fiscal on Thursday.