Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr. ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon has said the government will give top priority to research, innovation, modern technology, infrastructure development, and technical education to strengthen Bangladesh's textile sector.
Speaking at the orientation programme for new students of the Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX) on Wednesday, the minister said producing skilled textile engineers and researchers is essential for Bangladesh to remain competitive in the global market.
He told students that admission to BUTEX is an achievement in itself and that its graduates will play a leading role in the country's future. He noted that around 20 BUTEX graduates were recommended for various Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) cadres this year, including administration, foreign affairs, and police, while many alumni are serving in leadership positions at home and abroad.
Milon said Bangladesh is now the world's second-largest exporter of ready-made garments, adding that the country should also build internationally recognized domestic brands through greater innovation.
Addressing the students, he said they would lead the next generation of innovation in the textile sector.
The minister stressed the need to establish modern research facilities, including artificial intelligence (AI)-based laboratories, and said additional funding would be allocated to strengthen research at BUTEX.
He said the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is placing special emphasis on education, particularly technical and engineering education, to transform the country's large population into a skilled workforce.
Milon said the government would consider expanding BUTEX's infrastructure, including constructing a new academic building and increasing student intake to meet growing global demand for textile engineers.
He also emphasized developing local professionals to lead the textile industry, reducing dependence on foreign experts.
The minister said reforms are underway across the education sector, including expanding technical education from Grade 6, introducing a revised national curriculum in 2027, and implementing a new curriculum in 2028. Efforts are also being made to eliminate session delays so students can complete SSC in 10 years, HSC in two years, and undergraduate degrees in four years.
He announced plans to establish two specialized government colleges for diploma engineers to expand higher education opportunities and said the government would consider requests for land to build a second BUTEX campus.
Responding to demands for a separate BCS cadre for textile engineers, Milon said the proposal was reasonable and would be placed before the prime minister for consideration.
He urged students to become entrepreneurs as well as professionals and assured them of the government's support in addressing their legitimate concerns.
BUTEX Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Engr. Md. Zulhash Uddin, along with teachers, students, and other officials, attended the programme.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
