Teachers and employees of non-government educational institutions receiving Monthly Pay Order benefits will be covered by the new national pay scale approved by the Cabinet on Monday.

An education ministry official confirmed the matter to New Age on Tuesday amid uncertainty following Monday’s Cabinet meeting.

Cabinet secretary Nasimul Gani outlined the proposed salary increases at a press briefing after the Cabinet meeting.

However, he could not clarify whether MPO-listed teachers and employees would be included.

Responding to journalists’ questions, he said a decision would be made later.

Amid concerns among MPO beneficiaries, an education ministry official confirmed that MPO-listed teachers and employees would receive the benefits of the new pay structure.

Under the MPO system, the government provides financial assistance to non-government educational institutions to pay teachers’ and employees’ salaries and allowances.

MPO-listed staff currently receive 100 per cent of their basic salaries from the government, along with allowances, including medical benefits.

More than six lakh teachers and employees nationwide are covered by the MPO scheme.

About four lakh work under the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education, nearly two lakh under the Directorate of Madrasa Education, and more than 23,000 under the Directorate of Technical Education.

The new pay structure is expected to significantly increase their basic salaries and house rent allowances.

Teachers will receive revised benefits according to their existing grades, based on the level and type of institution and their subjects.

Under the new pay scale announced on Monday, basic salaries for government employees will rise by 100 to 142 per cent, depending on their grade.