Dhaka: Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury today emphasized that skilled manpower and a safe working environment are crucial for the country's prosperity. "Our future generation is highly talented and full of potential. With proper guidance, they will take the country a long way forward. Seeing today's young winning students, I am very optimistic about their future," he stated. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks as the chief guest at a prize distribution ceremony organized for college and university students. The event, marking the "Great May Day and National Occupational Health and Safety Day 2026," took place at the Shram Bhaban conference room in Bijoynagar, Dhaka. Ariful highlighted the current government's labour-friendly approach and stressed the necessity of skilled workers for national progress. He cited China's global advancement as a testament to the benefits of harnessing a skilled workforce. The minister also underscored the significance o f a safe working environment, noting that while developed countries prioritize workplace safety, it remains an under-addressed issue in Bangladeshi factories. He instructed labour inspectors to engage directly with workers to understand their problems and implement suitable measures, thus ensuring that these human resources, seen as valuable assets, contribute effectively to the nation's development. Ariful urged the youth to focus on acquiring knowledge and participating in creative activities rather than spending excessive time on social media. The event concluded with the minister presenting certificates and crests to the winning students. Labour and Employment Ministry Secretary Md Abdur Rahman Tarafdar attended the event as a special guest, while Additional Secretary of the Labour and Employment Ministry Md Abdur Rahim Khan chaired the programme.
