A new development phase has been launched at Shakpala Park in Bogra, established by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The Roads and Highways Department is set to begin renovation work next week according to the Prime Minister’s design, State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam said during a visit on Friday.
“The park was created under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership. Its concept was discussed during Dr Yunus’ tenure in London, making it a subject of national interest. Due to budget constraints, the municipality initially took responsibility, but the scale of renovation requires substantial funding. The Roads and Highways Department will now implement the work following the Prime Minister’s design,” the State Minister said.
On questions regarding Bogra City Corporation, Mir Shahe Alam said the proposal is under discussion. “If the city corporation is approved, municipal elections will be held after dissolving the Bogra Municipality. Otherwise, the municipality elections will proceed,” he added.
The State Minister visited different sections of the park and met with local officials. Present at the visit were Bogra Deputy Commissioner Taufiqur Rahman, Municipality Administrator Razia Sultana, senior officials from the Roads and Highways and Public Works Department, and BNP leaders.
Regional Centre of National University to be set up at Mahasthan
As part of efforts to modernize higher education in Bogra and northern Bangladesh, a regional centre of the National University will be established at the historic Mahasthan site in Shibganj upazila.
State Minister Mir Shahe Alam visited the proposed site yesterday and held discussions with local officials and local representatives.
“The regional centre will significantly ease the longstanding challenges faced by students and teachers from the Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions. A modern Teachers Training Centre will be established, providing regular training to improve teacher skills and enhance the quality of education,” the State Minister said.
Currently, students and teachers from these divisions must travel to Dhaka for registration, form submissions, and administrative work, causing substantial time, cost, and effort. The new centre will allow these processes to be conducted locally.