BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said that democracy is not only a right but also a responsibility and an obligation to the country, the nation, and its people.
He said: "As part of the democratic struggle, we demand our rights, elections, and security. At the same time, if we want to institutionalize democracy, we must also be aware of our responsibilities toward the country, the nation, and the people. True institutional democracy can only be achieved through fulfilling those responsibilities."
He made these remarks on Monday while joining as the chief guest virtually at the golden jubilee celebration of the historic River View High School in Thakurgaon.
However, expressing concern, he said that despite many movements, revolutions, and mass uprisings in the country, the standard of education has significantly declined compared to the past.
At the event, Mirza Fakhrul said: "We want democratic rights, we want elections, we want other rights too, and we want students' rights." He added, "Just having democracy is not enough; one must also understand it. Just as democracy grants rights, it also imposes duties. Only by fulfilling those duties can democracy truly take an institutional form."
Emphasizing the importance of education in rebuilding the nation, the BNP secretary general said: "To rebuild this nation, we need to prepare our students. They must be able to demonstrate their competence in every field."
Describing the modern world as ‘competitive’, he said: "To survive in today’s world, one must compete in knowledge. Things have become even more difficult now. Technology has advanced to such an extent that if we cannot cope with it, we will fall behind."
He expressed deep concern over the declining quality of education in the country, saying, "The standard of education across the country has alarmingly deteriorated. Without pointing fingers at who is responsible, I want to say that overall, the quality has declined."
Addressing students, he said: "If you want to make the state better and build a beautiful nation, you must study. There is no alternative to education. In addition, you need to engage in extracurricular activities. You must play sports. To prove your physical capabilities, you must work and practice. Just as practice is essential in academics, it is equally important in sports."
Calling on teachers, he said: "Ensure that students are not negligent. Do not compromise under any circumstances. You must make sure the students understand their lessons properly. There is no substitute for knowledge."
At the end of the event, former and current students of the school brought out a joyful rally that paraded through the main streets of Thakurgaon town. Teachers and students of River View School were present during the rally.
