United News of Bangladesh

Prime Minister’s Education Adviser Mahdi Amin on Tuesday said Bangladesh must develop a more skilled, capable and responsible young generation to build the prosperous and democratic nation people aspire to, stressing the need for a modern and inclusive education system. “To build the Bangladesh people aspire to, we must make our young generation more skilled, capable and responsible citizens,” he said at a national workshop titled “Transforming Higher Education in Bangladesh: Roadmap to Sustainable Excellence” at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban of University of Dhaka. He described education as the backbone of the nation and said Bangladesh’s large youth population represents a major demographic opportunity. Addressing academics, policymakers and dignitaries, Mahdi Amin said, “If we want to move the country forward, we must utilise your wisdom, intellect, creativity and guidance to strengthen democratic Bangladesh and ensure people’s empowerment,” he said. Referring to the historical role of Dhaka University, he said the institution had played a vital role in every major political transformation in Bangladesh including the July uprising. Mahdi Amin said the government formed through a ‘free, fair and acceptable election’ three months ago, is working relentlessly to fulfil its electoral pledges under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. He emphasised the need to modernise the education system and integrate civic values, technological skills and professional competence into schools, colleges and universities. The adviser also highlighted the role of researchers, teachers and education experts in implementing the government’s development plans through research, policy advice and methodological innovation. Outlining the government’s future vision, Mahdi Amin spoke of a technology-driven welfare system aimed at improving the lives of ordinary citizens. He said farmers would receive subsidies and agricultural support directly through digital farmer cards while modern technology and weather forecasting tools would help improve agricultural productivity. He also said the government plans to introduce E-health cards to ensure access to treatment through public-private partnerships, allowing patients in remote areas to receive healthcare services free of cost under government schemes. Mahdi said the government aims to improve the status and skills of teachers through initiatives such as the “One Teacher, One Tab” programme which would provide digital devices and international-standard training to educators. He said the government wants to ensure that the country’s future generations are equipped to compete globally through a modernised and digitised curriculum. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman opened the workshp around 11am and deliverd a speech. Arranged by the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh, the inaugural session was presided over by its Chairman Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed. Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed presented a crest to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on behalf of the UGC.