Tokyo:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday urged all Bangladeshis, including those living abroad, to contribute towards building a developed Bangladesh with improved facilities for its citizens both domestically and internationally. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing efforts for the betterment of the country during a meeting with Bangladeshi expatriates in Tokyo.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister highlighted that a better Bangladesh would benefit its citizens, irrespective of whether they reside in the country or overseas. He called for collective efforts to drive the nation's progress, stressing that everyone should strive to contribute positively to the country, regardless of their location or position.
Tarique Rahman responded to queries from expatriates about government plans for overseas Bangladeshis, including those engaged in political activities abroad. He reaffirmed that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) holds the people's mandate and is committed to the country's welfare. Additionally, he encouraged expatriates to view national development as a shared responsibility, urging them to contribute from wherever they are.
The programme, organized by the Bangladesh Community in Japan, was held at a hotel in Tokyo. Dr. Zubaida Rahman, the Prime Minister's wife, was also in attendance. During the event, the Prime Minister outlined plans to introduce Japanese and other foreign languages in schools, expand healthcare services at the upazila level, and enhance skills training for Bangladeshis seeking overseas employment.
The government aims to introduce Japanese, German, and French as optional third languages in the education system to equip students with skills for higher education and employment abroad. Furthermore, the education system will place greater emphasis on sports, arts, and culture, alongside vocational education, to prepare young people for future employment and international competition.
In response to questions about healthcare cooperation with Japan, the Prime Minister announced plans to upgrade 50-bed upazila health complexes to 150-bed hospitals within five years, enhancing rural healthcare access. The expanded facilities will include specialized services to meet the needs of women and children. The government also plans to recruit 100,000 health workers to focus on preventive healthcare and community health awareness.
Regarding skills and employment opportunities for Bangladeshis returning from Japan, the Prime Minister encouraged them to contact relevant ministries for potential opportunities. He acknowledged challenges in recruiting Japanese-language teachers and emphasized the need for proper preparation of workers for overseas employment, including language and cultural training.
Source United News of Bangladesh