Education Adviser Prof Dr Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar.Photo: Collected
Education Adviser Prof. Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar today emphasized the importance of developing a science-based and technology-driven education system in Bangladesh.
He made this call while addressing a seminar titled "Past, Present, and Future of Madrasah Education in Bangladesh," held at the International Mother Language Institute (IMLI) in Dhaka, where he was the chief guest.
Professor Abrar highlighted the need for efficient use of public funds, stating, "All educational institutions in our country are funded by public money. It's crucial that we utilize these resources effectively."
He stressed the importance of engaging with stakeholders to identify priority areas where the education ministry should focus its spending. Additionally, he underscored the need to revamp madrasah education, aligning it with the evolving demands of students, teachers, and administrators.
Reflecting on the July-August mass uprising, Abrar said the movement offered a renewed opportunity for the nation to build itself with responsibility and compassion. He paid tribute to all martyrs of the democratic movements, including those who were martyred or injured in the 2024 uprising, and acknowledged the significant role played by madrasah students in every major democratic struggle, dating back to the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny.
"We owe a deep respect to all those who sacrificed their lives in the democratic struggles of our country," he added.
Professor Abrar also called for fostering an environment that allows young people to develop their talents freely and apply them in ways that align with their personal goals.
The seminar was chaired by Dr. K. M. Kabirul Islam, Secretary of the Technical and Madrasa Education Division, with Siddique Zobair, Senior Secretary of the Secondary and Higher Education Division, attending as a special guest. Other notable attendees included Prof. Dr. Salimullah Khan from the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, Prof. Dr. ABM Siddiqur Rahman Nizami from Dhaka University, and Maulana Mohammad Liaqat Ali, Director of Education at Madrasa Darur Rashad.