The Impact of Agricultural Science Studies on Family Farming and the Need for Compulsory Inclusion in Higher Secondary Education in Bangladesh

Agricultural Science education plays a crucial role in the socio-economic development of Bangladesh, directly influencing family farming, employment opportunities, and students’ career choices. This study investigates the impact of Agricultural Science studies at the higher secondary level using a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative surveys from students and teachers with qualitative interviews of agricultural professionals. The findings reveal that while Agricultural Science education increases students’ engagement in family farming and enhances their agricultural knowledge, its practical application remains limited due to inadequate vocational training and outdated curricula. Comparisons with international best practices, particularly from Germany, Japan, and the United States, emphasize the need for structured hands-on training, industry linkages, and agribusiness exposure in Bangladesh’s educational framework. The study highlights the necessity of making Agricultural Science a compulsory subject in higher secondary education to bridge knowledge gaps, promote agripreneurship, and align with national food security and employment goals. Policy recommendations include curriculum modernization, the introduction of digital agriculture, and gender-inclusive training programs. The study provides graphical and tabular data to support its findings and suggests actionable strategies to integrate agricultural education into the national development agenda. Keywords: Agricultural Education, Family Farming, Employment, Higher Secondary Curriculum, Bangladesh, Policy Reforms, Vocational Training, Digital Agriculture.