Borishal

Barishal, located in the southern part of Bangladesh, has a rich and diverse history that dates back several centuries. The region was once part of the Vanga Kingdom, one of the ancient kingdoms mentioned in Indian epics. Because of its fertile land and river network, it became an important center for agriculture and trade even in ancient times.During the Mughal period (16th–18th centuries), Barishal gained importance as a trading post. The Mughal rulers established administrative control and encouraged settlement in the area. Many local landlords (zamindars) emerged under the Mughal system, and the region became known for rice cultivation and river transport. The famous Mughal general Shah Shuja, the son of Emperor Shah Jahan, is believed to have passed through this area during his campaigns. Barishal’s waterways played a vital role in connecting different parts of Bengal. Barishal came under British rule in 1760, after the Battle of Plassey. Under British administration, Barishal became part of the Bakerganj District, which was one of the earliest districts established by the British in Bengal.

During the Pakistan Period (1947–1971) edit

After the Partition of India in 1947, Barishal became part of East Pakistan. During this period, political and social movements grew stronger, particularly those supporting the Bengali Language Movement and later the Liberation Movement.

Barishal’s people actively participated in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, fighting for independence. Many local heroes and freedom fighters contributed to the liberation of the region.

Modern Era (After Independence) edit

After Bangladesh gained independence in 1971, Barishal continued to develop as an administrative, educational, and commercial center.

Key milestones include:

In 1984, Barishal was declared a city corporation.
In 1993, it became the headquarters of Barishal Division, which includes six districts.
The establishment of the University of Barishal in 2011 boosted higher education in the region.

Today, Barishal is known for its river-based lifestyle, cultural traditions, and growing economy.

Education Structure in Barishal edit

The education system in Barishal follows the national structure of Ministry of Education of Bangladesh, divided into three main levels:

Primary Education (Grades 1–5) – Offered widely across district and upazila levels.
Secondary & Higher Secondary (Grades 6–12) – Managed by the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Barisal (est. 1999). Supports SSC and HSC examinations. Education Board Bangladesh
Higher and Tertiary Education (University & Vocational) – Consists of public and private universities, colleges, and technical schools.

Key Schools & Colleges edit

Historical & Prestige Schools edit

Barishal Zilla School (1829) – The oldest high school in the division; founded by Mr. N. W. Garret with 8 students. Offers Grades III–X. Wikipedia
Barishal Cadet College (1981) – Prestigious military-style boys’ school known for discipline & academic excellence. Wikipedia
Askar Kalibari Secondary School & College (1943) – One of the oldest non-government schools, serving Grades VI–XII. Wikipedia
Jahanara Israil School & College (2010) – Urban English version school blending modern curriculum with affordable tuition. Jahanara Israil School & College
Adventist International Mission School (AIMS) – English medium school focusing on holistic development, part of the worldwide Seventh-Day Adventist education network. AIMS-Barishal

Top Colleges (Higher Secondary & Undergraduate) edit

Government Syed Hatem Ali College (1966) – Premier public college offering Higher Secondary and Undergraduate programs in Arts, Science, Business, and Social Sciences. Wikipedia
Government Brojomohun College (1889) – A major urban university-affiliated college with 30,000+ students. Wikipedia
Barishal Grammar School and College (2019) – New private institution offering both Bangladesh Curriculum and English version courses. bgscbd.com
UCEP Syed Bari Alekanda Technical School (2023) – Focuses on vocational training for Grades VI–X, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills. ucepbd.org

Universities in Barishal edit

Barishal has become a growing center for higher education with public and private universities:

Public Universities edit

University of Barishal (2011) – The region’s flagship public university with ~9,300 students and multiple faculties. Offers undergraduate, graduate, and research programs. Wikipedia
Patuakhali Science and Technology University (2002) – Focus on agricultural sciences, fisheries, and engineering.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University (Pirojpur) – Specializes in engineering and maritime studies.

Private Universities edit

Trust University, Barishal (2018) – Focuses on business, technology, and professional education with a global perspective. trustuniversity.edu.bd
Global University Bangladesh – Offers multidisciplinary programs at competitive costs.

Specialized Institutions edit

Barishal Engineering College (Affiliated to University of Dhaka) – Offers undergraduate degrees in Electrical & Electronics and Civil Engineering. Maintains labs, dorms, and modern facilities. bec.edu.bd
Bangladesh Open University – Barishal Regional Center – Provides distance education to fight illiteracy and provide flexible learning to all ages. Bangladesh Open University

Board & Examination edit

Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Barisal (est. 1999) manages SSC & HSC exams for the division. Education Board Bangladesh
Focuses on quality education, regular auditing, scholarship for meritorious students, and HQ activities across districts.

Key Insights edit

Barishal’s literacy rate is one of the highest in Bangladesh, reflecting a strong cultural emphasis on education even in rural areas.
Historically, iconic figures like A. K. Fazlul Huq played a major role in promoting higher education from Barishal.
The region is now evolving into an educational hub, blending traditional public institutions with modern vocational and technical training, preparing students for the global workforce.

In short: Education in Barishal is a proud blend of history and innovation — from one of Bangladesh’s oldest schools to its newest universities and technical centers. Whether you are a student in search of primary learning or planning to pursue university education, Barishal offers comprehensive options driven by a long legacy of literacy and progress.

Traditional Foods of Barishal edit

Barishal, often referred to as the “Venice of the East”, is one of the major divisions of southern Bangladesh. The region is famous for its scenic rivers, fertile lands, and diverse culinary traditions. The cuisine of Barishal reflects its riverine culture, combining the freshness of local fish, vegetables, and coconut-based dishes.

Fish Dishes edit

Barishal’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its riverine geography, making fish a staple part of the local diet. Among all, Hilsa (Ilish) holds a special place and is considered a symbol of Barishali identity.

Ilish Bhaja: Fried Hilsa fish, commonly served with plain rice.
Shorshe Ilish: Hilsa cooked in mustard gravy, a popular traditional delicacy.
Ilish Paturi: Hilsa marinated in mustard paste and steamed in banana leaves.

Dried Fish (Shutki) Dishes edit

Dried fish, locally known as Shutki, is another significant part of Barishal’s food culture.

Shutki Bhorta: Mashed dried fish mixed with onion, chili, and mustard oil.
Shutki Curry: A spicy curry made from dried fish and local vegetables.

Coconut-Based Dishes edit

Due to the abundance of coconut trees, coconut is widely used in Barishali cuisine.

Chingri Narkel Bata: Prawn cooked with coconut paste and spices.
Mocha Ghonto: Banana flower curry prepared with grated coconut and traditional seasonings.

Pitha (Traditional Rice Cakes) edit

Pitha is an integral part of Barishal’s culinary tradition, especially during winter and festive occasions.

Chitoi Pitha: Steamed rice cake served with jaggery or molasses.
Patishapta Pitha: Rolled rice crepe filled with coconut and jaggery.
Bhapa Pitha: Steamed rice cake with coconut and molasses filling.

Vegetable Dishes edit

Barishal’s fertile land produces a wide variety of vegetables, often cooked with fish or shrimp.

Pui Shaak with Fish Head: Malabar spinach cooked with fish head and spices.
Lau Chingri: Bottle gourd cooked with shrimp.
Kumro Bhaji: Fried pumpkin slices, a popular side dish.

Sweets and Snacks edit

Barishal is also famous for its sweets made from date palm jaggery (Khejur Gur).

Naru: Sweet coconut balls mixed with jaggery.
Murir Moa: Puffed rice and jaggery balls.
Chirer Polao: Flattened rice cooked with vegetables and spices, served as a light meal or snack.