Prime Minister’s Education Adviser Mahdi Amin on Tuesday said Bangladesh must develop a skilled, capable and responsible young generation to build the prosperous and democratic nation people aspire to.
He said this at a national workshop titled “Transforming Higher Education in Bangladesh: Roadmap to Sustainable Excellence” at the University of Dhaka’s Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban.
“To build the Bangladesh people aspire to, we must make our young generation more skilled, capable and responsible citizens,” he said.
Describing education as the backbone of the nation, Mahdi said Bangladesh’s large youth population represents a major demographic opportunity.
Addressing academics, policymakers and dignitaries, he 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.”
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 said the government, formed through a “free, fair and acceptable election” three months ago, was 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 vision, Mahdi 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 planned to introduce e-health cards to ensure access to treatment through public-private partnerships, allowing patients in remote areas to receive healthcare services at no cost under government schemes.
Mahdi said the government aimed 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 wanted to ensure that future generations are equipped to compete globally through a modernised and digitised curriculum.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inaugurated the workshop around 11am and delivered a speech.
Organised by the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh, the inaugural session was presided over by its Chairman Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed.
Prof Mamun presented a crest to the prime minister on behalf of the UGC.
