Dhaka: Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury has announced that the government has initiated efforts from the grassroots level to enhance the living standards of marginalized communities. He emphasized that the deterioration of a nation begins with the destruction of its education system, historical consciousness, culture, and moral foundation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister criticized the previous ruling party for their systematic destructive efforts. He accused them of transforming education into a tool for political loyalty rather than maintaining merit-based standards, distorting history, and misleading future generations. These remarks were made during a civic reception and public gathering at Nazir Ahmed College premises, where the minister was the chief guest.
The minister underscored the present government’s commitment to eliminating the discriminatory, anti-merit, and conspiratorial education system. He highlighted that sustainable development is unattainable if the education system is weak. Addressing further challenges, he noted that aggressive forces often target a nation’s intellectual practices, educational institutions, libraries, and culture to weaken it.
He lamented that such destructive tendencies persisted in the country for a long time, affecting education, the electoral system, economy, and constitutional institutions. However, he highlighted the government’s reform initiatives, mentioning that within three months, effective measures have been taken to restore administrative discipline, economic stability, and introduce qualitative changes in the education sector.
Minister Chowdhury also pledged to improve the living standards of teachers, urging them to focus on intellectual pursuits and moral responsibility, playing a pivotal role in nurturing students as morally upright citizens. He stressed that with proper opportunities and leadership, students from rural and remote areas could emerge as world-class talents.
Discussing agriculture and the rural economy, he stated, “The soul of Bangladesh lies in villages, and the soul of villages lies in agriculture.” He acknowledged the resilience of farmers who sustained the country’s economy amid global crises and emphasized that the government has started its work from villages.
The government is implementing various public welfare programs, including rural development projects, canal excavation, and the distribution of agriculture and health cards. The minister called upon wealthy citizens and expatriates to contribute to the development of their localities. The event was also attended by district administration officials, local public representatives, and cultural personalities.