Rangpur: Prime Minister’s Adviser (State Minister) for Policy and Strategy, Information and Broadcasting and Cultural Affairs Ministry, Dr Zahed Ur Rahman, emphasized the importance of spreading the life, thoughts, and ideals of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam among children. He highlighted the significance of involving children in sports and cultural activities alongside their academic pursuits. Dr Zahed made these remarks while addressing a view-exchange meeting focused on organizing a nationwide cultural competition for students from educational institutions, in celebration of ‘Nazrul Barsho’, at the Rangpur Divisional Commissioner’s conference room.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Zahed urged that cultural activities should not be confined to songs, dances, or recitations, but children should also be educated about Nazrul’s life and ideals. He called upon district cultural and education officers to provide necessary instructions to educational institutions in this regard. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, he mentioned, supports the integration of sports and cultural activities in children’s education and believes every child should learn to play at least one musical instrument.
Dr Zahed also announced plans for a nationwide book reading program in collaboration with the Biswa Sahitya Kendra (World Literature Center) aimed at primary and secondary students. He stressed the importance of linking cultural activities with professional and economic opportunities, rather than viewing them solely as hobbies. To support creative initiatives, Taka 800 crore has been allocated in the budget.
The adviser emphasized the need for year-round drama, cultural programs, and independent film exhibitions at Shilpakala Academies. He also advocated for creating opportunities for children to visit museums and archaeological sites. Addressing infrastructure development and cultural activities at the local level, Dr Zahed criticized the previous policy of ‘demand before supply’ and advocated for creating demand before ensuring supply.
Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Md Hamidul Haque, presented a documentary detailing the schedule and guidelines for the nationwide cultural competition to celebrate ‘Nazrul Barsho’. The meeting was chaired by Rangpur Divisional Commissioner Md Shahidul Islam and attended by Deputy Commissioners of eight districts in the Rangpur division, District Education Officers, District Cultural Officers, cultural organization representatives, and journalists.
Officials disclosed that the Ministry of Cultural Affairs has organized a cultural competition from September 1 to October 12, 2026, as part of Nazrul Barsho celebrations (May 25, 2026 – May 25, 2027). Students from primary, technical, secondary, private, and kindergarten schools will participate, with the final competition taking place at the national level.