United News of Bangladesh

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday described students as the “gamechangers” for future Bangladesh, saying the country's progress in science, innovation, sports and global competitiveness will depend on the younger generation. “You are the gamechangers of Bangladesh. The gamechangers of Bangladesh are sitting in front of me today. You will build Bangladesh and its future. You will lead the country forward and keep it ahead in competition with other nations,” he said. The Prime Minister was addressing the Startup, Science Project and Innovation Idea Showcasing and Tree Plantation Launching Programme at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in the capital. The event, organised by the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education under the Ministry of Education, brought together students from across the country to showcase their innovative ideas, science projects and creative initiatives. Prime Minister's wife Dr Zubaida Rahman was present at the programme. Addressing the students, Tarique Rahman said visiting the exhibition and seeing the projects displayed by young innovators filled him with confidence about the country's future. He recalled attending a school-level sports event at the Army Stadium a few days ago and said the combination of talented young athletes and innovative students convinced him that Bangladesh has a bright future ahead. “When I saw your projects today and remembered the young footballers I met earlier, I felt confident. I thought, yes, we can do it. A country with such talented young people can certainly move forward,” the Prime Minister said. He said the government is investing in education, sports, culture, science and innovation because the future of Bangladesh belongs to today's students. Citing that the young generation is in the centre of the government’s all endeavours, Tarique Rahman said, “We may not be here forever, but you will be here. You will build Bangladesh and lead the country in the future,” he said. He said the government is introducing reforms aimed at helping students develop a wide range of skills so that they can compete successfully with their peers around the world. The Prime Minister said the current government wants students to excel not only in science and technology but also in sports, culture, languages and vocational skills. As part of that effort, he said, schools and colleges will receive greater support for sports competitions, cultural activities and innovation programmes. Tarique Rahman also highlighted plans to strengthen language education, saying students should be encouraged to learn a third language alongside Bangla and English. Knowledge of additional international languages, he said, will create new opportunities for higher education, employment and international engagement.