Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said literacy in the present global context is no longer confined to basic abilities in reading, writing and numeracy; rather, it now encompasses digital skills, information literacy, critical thinking, creativity, life skills and environmental awareness.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister emphasized that the incumbent government aims to transform the education system from certificate-based learning to skills-based, employment-oriented, and ethical education. This statement was part of a message issued on the eve of International Literacy Day 2026, which is set to be observed with the theme ‘Literacy for People, Planet and Prosperity’.
Noting that modern literacy lies at the intersection of human development, protection of the planet, and a prosperous economy, Tarique Rahman stated that literacy is not merely a programme to eliminate illiteracy but also a foundation for enhancing people’s capabilities, creating employment, promoting social inclusion, and ensuring sustainable prosperity.
The Head of the Government announced that the government has allocated the highest-ever budget for the education sector to build an effective education system for all, with plans to gradually raise the allocation to 5 percent of GDP during its tenure. ‘Investment would be increased in universal pre-primary education, early childhood development, mother-tongue-based education and the development of human and civic values from the primary level,’ the Prime Minister added.
Stressing the need to link literacy programmes with technical and vocational education, technology education, digital skills, and job-oriented training, Rahman highlighted the importance of expanding opportunities for skill development and digital literacy at the local level, particularly for disadvantaged rural women and homemakers.
Tarique Rahman also called for integrating children, women, marginalised communities, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, and other disadvantaged groups into the mainstream of education and skill development.
The Premier urged the ministries concerned, educational institutions, teachers, academics, public and private organisations, development partners, the private sector, civil society, voluntary organisations, media professionals, and people from all walks of life to collaborate to achieve this goal.
He expressed hope that the observance of International Literacy Day would strengthen people’s capabilities, advance the national economy through knowledge, and help build an environmentally friendly, inclusive, and sustainable Bangladesh. The Prime Minister wished success to all programmes undertaken to mark International Literacy Day 2026.