United News of Bangladesh

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday said the country’s education system must be revamped, taking into consideration its literature, heritage, culture, employment needs and overall requirements. He made the remarks when a delegation of the Association of Private Universities of Bangladesh (APUB) paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban. The President said the fragile education system inherited from the previous regime needs to be restructured. He stressed the need to bring different streams of education under a coordinated and integrated system. “Indiscriminate approval of substandard educational institutions during the previous fascist regime resulted in the creation of an unskilled workforce,” he said. Mirza Fakhrul also underscored the need to put greater emphasis on vocational and technical education to develop skilled manpower and boost foreign exchange earnings through overseas employment. “We have to revamp the education system by considering everything together – our literature, heritage, culture, employment and national needs,” he said. During the meeting, the APUB delegation briefed the President on the state and development of higher education in the country, the current situation of private universities, skilled human resources development and the contribution of private universities to the country’s economic progress. The delegation sought the introduction of competency- and outcome-based assessment systems and urged that approval of new universities be based on subject-wise national demand, investment capacity and quality standards. The APUB representatives also called for allowing qualified universities to offer PhD programmes and conduct research, obtain patents and commercialise innovations. They further proposed industry-linked curricula, internships and apprenticeships, foreign-language education, and training in artificial intelligence (AI) and professional skills to make every graduate employable. The delegation also sought to transform the University Grants Commission (UGC) into a supportive and development-oriented regulatory body and urged the formulation of an integrated national education system. Praising the role of private universities in expanding higher education and contributing to research, innovation and national development, the President said several private universities have maintained their positions in global rankings. As Chancellor of the universities, the President assured the delegation of his full cooperation in the development of private universities. The delegation was led by APUB Chairman Dr Md Sabur Khan. Its members included Vice-Chairmen Benajir Ahmed and KBM Moin Uddin Chisty, Treasurer Qayum Reza Chowdhury, Executive Council members Abdul Quasem Haider, Kazi Zahedul Hasan and Nowshad Shamsul Arefin, and APUB Secretariat Director Belal Ahmed. The President’s Military Secretary and Press Secretary were also present at the meeting.

Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi on Thursday paid a courtesy call on President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir at Bangabhaban. During the meeting, he said Bangladesh attaches great importance to its long-standing friendly and fraternal relations with Iran, built on deep historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. Mirza Fakhrul said the creative works and literature of renowned Persian poets and thinkers, including Ferdowsi, Sheikh Saadi, Hafez and Jalaluddin Rumi, have had a profound influence on the thoughts and culture of the people of this region, according to a Bangabhaban press release. He also recalled the affection for the Iranian people expressed in the poems and songs of Bangladesh’s National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Expressing deep concern over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the President said it has caused a severe energy crisis in import-dependent countries like Bangladesh. He reiterated Bangladesh’s principled position that disputes should be resolved through dialogue, understanding and diplomatic efforts. Mirza Fakhrul expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives in Iran during the war in the Middle East and reiterated Bangladesh’s condemnation of Israeli attacks on Iranian territory in violation of Iran’s sovereignty and international law. He also stressed the importance of unity among the Muslim Ummah for global peace and stability. The Iranian ambassador handed over a congratulatory letter from the Iranian President to Mirza Fakhrul on his election as the President of Bangladesh. He praised Bangladesh’s constructive role in efforts to ease tensions in the Middle East and recalled with gratitude the participation of Bangladesh’s Jatiya Sangsad Speaker in the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Jalil Rahimi expressed hope that Bangladesh and Iran will work together to further strengthen bilateral relations in various fields. The President assured the ambassador of full cooperation in discharging his responsibilities and expressed hope that his tenure will make an important contribution to further strengthening Bangladesh-Iran relations. Secretaries of the President’s Office and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Iranian Embassy were present during the meeting.

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday described the media as democracy’s main strength, saying protecting the media is essential to protecting democracy. “The media must play a responsible role in upholding the country’s independence, sovereignty and good governance while remaining on the right track,” he said when a delegation of the Jatiya Press Club (JPC) Management Committee, led by its President Hasan Hafiz and General Secretary Aiyub Bhuiyan, paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban. Recalling his long-standing relationship with the JPC, the President said, “My relationship with the press club is not merely political; it is a long-standing spiritual bond. You stood by me during my most difficult times, which is a great achievement for me.” He said democracy is a culture and must be institutionalised through a positive change in mindset. “We have to come out of the old authoritarian mindset and embrace democratic values. Even after bringing about change through a movement, genuine change will not be possible if the old mentality remains,” Mirza Fakhrul said. He said the elected government should be given sufficient time to work, urging the media to appropriately highlight the energy crisis caused by global factors, including the ongoing wars in the Middle East. The President assured the delegation of extending all-out cooperation for the welfare of journalists. He stressed the need to reopen newspapers that have been shut down to address the employment crisis among journalists. “If the closed newspapers, especially those under trusts, can be reopened, it will create employment opportunities for at least 1,000 journalists,” he said. Mirza Fakhrul also called for unity among journalists, saying, “Unity among the journalist community is extremely important. Division can never bring success. If you can unite on fundamental issues, you will be able to establish effective relations with both the government and the opposition.” He urged journalists to take united and effective measures to ensure their protection and prevent irregularities and mass layoffs in the media sector. The President said a truly democratic government assumed office after a long time and the media’s responsibility has consequently increased. He said the media should objectively highlight the government’s mistakes and shortcomings while also bringing its good initiatives and achievements before the people. Recalling the long-standing tradition of the JPC, Mirza Fakhrul remembered the contributions of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to the development of the institution. He stressed effective communication and coordination with the government leadership for the welfare and development of the press club and journalists. JPC President Hasan Hafiz conveyed greetings and congratulations to the President on behalf of the institution and invited him to visit the press club at his convenience. General Secretary Aiyub Bhuiyan recalled his past memories with Mirza Fakhrul, saying, “You were like a member of our family at the press club. We are proud and delighted that one of our own has assumed the office of President.” JPC member Syed Abdal Ahmed also recalled his past memories with the President and remembered his sacrifices and contributions to protecting democracy. Muhammed Kader Gani Chowdhury highlighted the practice of yellow journalism during the previous period and sought the President’s cooperation in maintaining a responsible media environment. He also sought cooperation from the government and the President for the swift implementation of the 10th Wage Board for the welfare of the media and journalists. When the journalist leaders sought the President’s cooperation in expanding the JPC’s infrastructure, he assured them of his support. The JPC delegation also included Bakhtiar Rana, Kazi Rawnak Hossain, Shahnaz Begum Poly, Mohammad Momin Hossain, Abdul Hye Sikder, Masumur Rahman Khalili, AKM Mohsin and Zahidul Islam Rony. The President’s Military Secretary, Secretary and Press Secretary, among other senior officials, were present during the meeting.  

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday stressed the need for resolving outstanding issues between Bangladesh and India through dialogue and urged India to take effective measures for the equitable sharing of waters of common rivers, including the Ganges and the Teesta. Mutual trust and confidence between the peoples of the two countries would increase further if issues of common interest are resolved through just and mutually acceptable solutions, he said. The president made the remarks when Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban this morning, said President's press secretary Md Sarwar Alam. Noting that the management of common rivers is directly linked to the lives and livelihoods of the people of both countries, he urged India to take effective measures for the fair distribution of waters of common rivers. Dinesh Trivedi informed the President that his government is taking positive steps in this regard. The President said Bangladesh attaches special importance to its relations with India as its closest neighbour and an important trade and development partner.  

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday underscored the importance of an independent and responsible media in strengthening democracy, ensuring good governance and building a just society. He made the remarks while exchanging views with members of the executive committee of Thakurgaon Press Club at his residence during his two-day visit to the district. The President urged grassroots journalists to faithfully reflect the voices, concerns and aspirations of people particularly those living in rural and marginalised communities. Thakurgaon journalist leaders raised various issues and demands concerning district-level journalists, including expansion of Thakurgaon Press Club building, more funding for the Journalist Welfare Trust to support local journalists who faced persecution during the Awami League government, and the formation of a Wage Board for journalists. The President assured them that he would discuss their problems and demands with the authorities concerned and take necessary measures. He also stressed the importance of unity among journalists. President Mirza Fakhrul said division among journalists is one of the major reasons behind their present difficulties and urged them to overcome their differences. “Today, there is division everywhere. It is not only in Thakurgaon but also in Dhaka. Such division is not desirable. Opportunists take advantage of it,” he said. President’s Press Secretary Sarwar Alam, Thakurgaon Press Club President Lutfor Rahman Mithu, General Secretary Tanvir Hasan Tanu, government officials concerned and representatives of the Press Club’s executive committee were present.  

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir urged the people, particularly leaders and activists of all political parties, to refrain from conflict and confrontation and work together to strengthen democratic institutions. “We do not want any conflict or confrontation in Thakurgaon. Let us practise politics through dialogue and discussion,” he said while addressing a civic reception organised in his honour at Thakurgaon Government Boys’ High School field on Sunday. The reception was organised by the Civic Committee and local civil society members to welcome the President during his first visit to his home district after assuming office. The President called for a “politics of reconciliation” in Bangladesh, saying the country should move forward with tolerance and mutual respect. “We do not want to see more deaths and bloodshed. We fought and made sacrifices for democracy, and now we want to protect that democracy and build democratic institutions,” he said. He also called for ensuring equal rights for people of all faiths and communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians, so that everyone could live together as Bangladeshis. Referring to development demands of the people of Thakurgaon, President Fakhrul said the process of establishing a public university in the district had progressed significantly. He said the university land had been acquired and the vice-chancellor was already in place. He is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of Thakurgaon University on Monday. The President also said that the proposed medical college would be established in the district and student admission was expected to begin from next year. He said two separate upazilas demanded by local people had already been formed, with the respective UNOs joining their posts and beginning work. The President said Thakurgaon needed greater industrial and economic activity to create employment opportunities for its people. He said the proposed Shibganj airport could facilitate business and trade, but keeping the airport operational in the future would require increased economic activity and industrialisation in the area. “We have almost no factories or industries here. There are not enough jobs,” he said, adding that efforts were under way to attract investors, particularly for agro-based industries. He said the Finance Adviser and the Commerce Minister had visited the area and held discussions with local business people. The President also referred to recent exchanges with China, saying Chinese experts and investors could be encouraged to come to Thakurgaon and explore opportunities for developing agro-based industries. President Fakhrul urged local people not to depend solely on jobs or government contracts but to try to create employment opportunities themselves. “Unless you stand on your own feet, nobody else can make you stand,” he said, encouraging young people and entrepreneurs to take initiatives. He also urged women to become more involved in economic activities, saying greater participation by women could create more employment opportunities. Referring to overseas employment, he said around 10,000 people would have opportunities to go abroad without having to bear the costs themselves under an overseas recruitment initiative. He said he had discussed the matter with Minister Arif and that recruitment would initially begin with people from Thakurgaon. The President called upon the young people of Thakurgaon to take a strong stand against drugs and work towards making the district a drug-free area. He said he had asked local officials and lawmakers to take initiatives in this regard. He also urged local businessmen to unite and increase investment in the district. “I can assure you that wherever I am and whatever position I hold, I will always try to extend all possible cooperation to you,” he said. Recalling his childhood in Thakurgaon, the President said his birthplace, childhood and school life were all associated with the district. He expressed gratitude to his teachers, saying they had taught him honesty and leadership and helped shape his life. He also thanked the people of Thakurgaon for their continued support and confidence in him. The President said he wanted to see a society based on unity, love and mutual respect, rather than hatred, conflict or revenge. He recalled a message of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia following August 5, saying the country had received an opportunity after many sacrifices and bloodshed to establish democracy and that people should build a society through love rather than confrontation. Earlier in the day, the President received a civic reception at Thakurgaon Government Boys’ High School field, where local people, members of different communities and cultural performers welcomed him.

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir arrived in Thakurgaon on Sunday afternoon on a two-day visit, his first tour to his home district since assuming office. A helicopter carrying the President landed at Thakurgaon Mohammad Ali Stadium at 1:00pm. Rangpur Divisional Commissioner Md Shahidul Islam, Thakurgaon Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rafiqul Huq, Deputy Inspector General of Police (Rangpur Range) Mohammad Abdul Mabud, Superintendent of Police Md Belal Hossain, Thakurgaon district BNP President Mirza Faisal Amin and General Secretary Paigam Ali welcomed the President at the helipad.

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of Tozammel Hossain Khan (Taju Khan), a prominent political figure and social worker from Thakurgaon district. Tozammel Hossain passed away on Friday while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dhaka. In a condolence message, the President recalled Tozammel's lifelong, relentless contributions to democracy and development. "With his passing, the country's northern region has lost a strong and dedicated leader," the President said. The President prayed for the salvation of the departed soul and conveyed his deepest sympathy to the bereaved family members.

A delegation of the Dhaka College Alumni Association paid a courtesy call on President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir at Bangabhaban on Wednesday afternoon. During the meeting, the delegation, led by its President Mir Sarfat Ali Sapu and Md Quamruzzaman Ratan, MP, congratulated Mirza Fakhrul on his election as the 23rd President of Bangladesh. The President recalled his days as a former student and teacher of Dhaka College, saying the institution was once one of the finest seats of learning in the country. He said Dhaka College has made significant contributions to producing political leaders, writers, intellectuals, journalists, administrators and enlightened citizens, playing an important role in shaping the country's leadership and society. Members of the Dhaka College Alumni Association expressed their joy and pride over the election of Mirza Fakhrul, a former student of the college, as President. They expressed hope that the President will, with his wisdom, experience, leadership and patriotism, play an important role from the country's highest constitutional office for the welfare of the people, democratic values, national unity and prosperity. The association also wished the President good health, long life and success in discharging his state responsibilities. Mirza Fakhrul called upon the students, teachers and all concerned to work together to restore Dhaka College's past glory, heritage and excellence. The alumni association invited the President to attend the college's 186th founding anniversary celebrations, scheduled for November, as the chief guest. The President expressed hope of attending the founding anniversary programme. The President's secretaries and senior officials were present during the meeting.  

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday stressed the need to address the existing challenges facing Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) industry. He made the remarks when a delegation of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), led by its President Mahmud Hasan Khan, paid a courtesy call on the President at Bangabhaban. During the meeting, the delegation apprised the President of the existing problems in Bangladesh’s garment industry and sought his cooperation in resolving them. In response, the President assured the delegation of taking necessary measures to address their concerns. He said the government is working to address the mismanagement and irregularities that have persisted in the garment industry for a long time. “The government is making its utmost efforts to resolve the existing problems as soon as possible,” he said. During the meeting, the BGMEA delegation also invited the President to attend the closing ceremony of the 25th BATEXPO 2026 as the chief guest. The closing ceremony of BATEXPO 2026 is scheduled to be held on November 19, 2026, at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre. The President expressed hope that he would be able to attend the event.