Accra:The government has introduced new guidelines for observing national and international days to maintain their importance while minimizing public expenditure and conserving official time.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Cabinet Division issued a circular classifying 18 national-level days and festivals, along with 39 days of traditional and social significance, and 35 symbolic days related to specific sectors.
The guidelines specify that ministers will attend events for the 39 traditional and social days, with the possibility of the Prime Minister's attendance depending on each occasion's significance. Government funding of up to Tk 50,000 may be allocated for these events.
The 35 symbolic days will be observed on a smaller scale without special funding from the development budget. The circular suggests that government agencies may forego observing repetitive days that have diminished in relevance to conserve resources.
Furthermore, events such as Education Week, Science Week, and Police Week must adhere to the Prime Minister's instructions, as will the observance of Armed Forces Day on November 21. The guidelines recommend avoiding excessive decorations and large-scale cultural events on working days.
Programs spanning a week should be limited to three days, with discussions and cultural activities scheduled on holidays or after office hours. The circular emphasizes that approved programs should not disrupt regular office activities.