Summary:
- Dr. Muhammad Yunus stressed the importance of education, technology, and economic development to overcome challenges in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
- He highlighted the region’s untapped potential and urged for technological advancements to improve connectivity and economic opportunities.
- Praising the resilience of local youth, especially female football players, he encouraged them to aspire to be global citizens despite regional challenges.
- Dr. Yunus emphasized educational reforms and urged youth participation in the upcoming Festival of Youth to foster empowerment and cultural engagement.
Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, has emphasized the urgent need for advancing education, technology, and economic development in the country’s Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). Speaking virtually at a training program titled “Management of Hill District Councils” held in Dhaka on December 11, 2024, Dr. Yunus highlighted the region’s untapped potential and called for transformative measures to overcome its challenges.
Dr. Yunus described the CHT as a region rich in natural resources but lagging behind in development. He stated, “The hill districts could have been among the most developed regions of Bangladesh, yet they remain far behind. This should not be the case.” He pointed out that the area’s agricultural produce and traditional products have the potential to significantly contribute to the national economy. However, its remote and rugged terrain has hindered connectivity and progress, necessitating the expansion of technology to bridge these gaps.
Reflecting on his interactions with athletes from the region, Dr. Yunus praised their resilience and achievements. He recalled meeting female football players from the CHT who overcame considerable hardships to bring glory to Bangladesh on the global stage. “Your girls have conquered the world in football despite immense challenges,” he said, urging local leaders to foster an environment where young people can excel not only as citizens of Bangladesh but as global citizens.
Dr. Yunus also encouraged participation from CHT youth in January’s upcoming Festival of Youth, an event aimed at celebrating cultural diversity through sports, arts, and competitions. He stressed that such initiatives could inspire local children and young adults to embrace their potential and actively engage in national and global platforms.
Addressing systemic issues in education within the region, Dr. Yunus acknowledged that students and teachers in CHT face greater difficulties compared to other parts of Bangladesh due to infrastructural deficiencies and widespread irregularities. He called for focused efforts to improve educational access and quality, ensuring that students in remote areas are not left behind academically.
Dr. Yunus concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to addressing these challenges through policy reforms and collaborative efforts. He expressed hope that by harnessing the region’s resources and empowering its youth, the CHT could emerge as a model of sustainable development for Bangladesh.
This speech underscores Dr. Yunus’ broader vision for an inclusive Bangladesh where no region is left behind—a vision rooted in his extensive experience as a Nobel laureate and advocate for social entrepreneurship.
Source: Jamuna Tv
