Books remain essential to guiding future generations Says Education Minister

Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon on Friday urged students to develop a stronger habit of reading good books, saying there is no alternative to books in guiding future generations towards becoming competent and humane citizens.

“Today’s future generation will lead the country tomorrow. So, emphasis must be given to reading good books to develop them into competent and humane citizens,” he said.

The minister was speaking as the chief guest at a conference at a city hotel marking the 12th anniversary of the book-reading programme, jointly organised by Bishwa Sahitya Kendra and bKash.

Milon said the government was taking various initiatives to make education more enjoyable and creative, with particular emphasis on sports, culture, technical and vocational education, and joyful learning.

“These initiatives of the government will prepare young students for the future,” he added.

He also highlighted the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in social development, saying initiatives by different organisations make important contributions to the overall progress of society.

“Alongside the state, private organisations should come forward to create enlightened and creative people,” the minister said. Calling on young people to read good books, Milon said developing a reading habit could help the younger generation stay away from drugs and harmful mobile-phone addiction.

Executive Director of Bishwa Sahitya Kendra Khandaker Md Asaduzzaman and bKash Chief Executive Officer Kamal Quadir also spoke at the programme.