Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon on Friday said the government is making technical and vocational education mandatory from Class VI as part of its efforts to build a skilled workforce capable of competing in the global job market.
“We need to develop our students in such a way that they can lead the world,” he said while addressing a Leaders Training Seminar organised by Rotary Bangladesh at the Krishibid Institution Auditorium in the capital.
The government is reforming the education system by placing greater emphasis on technical and vocational training to equip students with practical skills and enhance their employability.
Referring to legal measures to protect the integrity of public examinations, Milon said the recently enacted Public Examination Act contains provisions to punish digital cheating and plagiarism.
"There was previously no provision for punishment for plagiarism or cheating through digital technology. The government has now incorporated such provisions into the law," he added.
He also stressed the need to align education with labour market demands.
"It is not possible to create an unemployment factory by providing higher education to everyone," the minister said.
Milon highlighted several government initiatives, including the introduction of midday meals, sports and cultural activities, and value-based education in schools.
"To make learning enjoyable, initiatives have been taken to introduce 'Learning Happy Class' activities. Plans are also underway to include games such as swimming and chess from the primary level," he said.
The minister paid tribute to late President Ziaur Rahman, describing him as a visionary leader.
"There is a board in my office that states: 'Ziaur Rahman, Education Minister - 16 days'. I often reflect on the changes he introduced during that brief period," he said.
Recalling education initiatives undertaken by former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, Milon said she introduced food-for-education and cash-for-education programmes, along with stipend schemes for female students.
"She had planned to extend stipends for girls up to degree level. That vision was later implemented under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. There is continuity in that vision," he said.
Praising Rotary International, the minister said its members work in the spirit of public service and noted that a proposal has been made to incorporate Rotary's Four-Way Test into the national curriculum.
Emphasising the importance of moral education, he said, "It is our responsibility to instil the right values in children from an early age."
Milon expressed optimism about the country's future, saying Bangladesh's large population should be viewed as a national asset rather than a burden.
"Many people consider population a burden, but I believe it is our blessing. Bangladesh has the potential to lead the world," he the minister maintained.
