Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon emphasized the necessity of incorporating moral education alongside digital literacy for the younger generation in the era of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology. He asserted that technical skills must be complemented by a strong moral foundation to ensure the proper use of talent and technology.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Swapon articulated these views as the chief guest at a national seminar titled ‘Role of Moral Education in Implementing the Philosophy of ‘Bangladesh Comes First.’ The seminar was organized by the Bangladesh Student Welfare Trust and held at the Daffodil Tower Auditorium in the capital. The minister highlighted the rapid digitalization of society and the economy, noting that everything from personal connections to business operations now depends heavily on digital platforms.
Swapon pointed out that despite this digital shift, many entities in the country struggle to keep pace. He emphasized the urgent need to modernize the state’s digital infrastructure while promoting social media content that fosters values among the youth. He also referenced the political changes of August 5, suggesting that leaders without moral standards would face negative consequences.
The minister called for an education system that embeds moral education into the curriculum to nurture students’ psychology from an early age. Reflecting on the past, Swapon noted that there was once a culture of criminalization, stifling positive initiatives and discussions. He praised the current environment that allows free expression and urged everyone to contribute to building a moral society.
The seminar, presided over by Bangladesh Student Welfare Trust Vice Chairman Prof Dr Abdul Latif Masum, also featured speeches from State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque, former caretaker government adviser Prof Md Moinuddin Khan, and Daffodil International University Chairman Dr Md Sabur Khan.