Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon on Wednesday said the government would give the highest priority to research, innovation, modern technology, infrastructure development and technical education to strengthen the country's textile sector, one of the main drivers of Bangladesh's economy.
"There is no alternative to producing skilled textile engineers and researchers if Bangladesh is to secure a leading position in the highly competitive global textile industry," he said while addressing the orientation programme for newly admitted students at Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX) as the chief guest.
Describing textile engineering as a science-based discipline, Milon said the establishment of modern research laboratories, particularly artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled facilities, is the need of the hour.
He said additional funding would be allocated to BUTEX to ensure high-quality research.
He expressed confidence that BUTEX students would play a leading role in the country's future development.
Highlighting the university's achievements, Milon said around 20 BUTEX students had been recommended this year for various Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) cadres, including administration, foreign affairs and police.
He also noted that many former BUTEX students were holding leadership positions both at home and abroad.
Referring to Bangladesh's position as the world's second-largest exporter of ready-made garments, the minister said it was a matter of national pride to see 'Made in Bangladesh' labels on internationally recognised brands.
However, he stressed the need to develop internationally competitive Bangladeshi brands for the domestic market by fostering greater innovation.
Milon said the Prime Minister is placing the highest priority on education, particularly technical and engineering education, as part of the government's efforts to transform Bangladesh's large population into a skilled workforce.
While many developed countries are experiencing declining populations, Bangladesh's large population represents a valuable national asset that must be equipped with appropriate skills, he said.
The minister said the government would expand the infrastructure of BUTEX if necessary, including constructing a new academic building. Although the university currently has around 650 students, he said there is scope to increase enrolment in the future.
Recalling the past, Milon said, “Foreigners, particularly professionals from India and Sri Lanka, once held key positions in many textile industries and bought houses in Bangladesh. Today, however, Bangladeshi graduates are proving equally capable, underscoring the need to produce more skilled local engineers and professionals to lead the sector.”
He said the government is working to develop students into skilled and modern citizens from the primary level through initiatives such as mid-day meals, school uniforms and sports-based joyful learning.
The minister added that greater emphasis is being placed on technical education from Year 6 onwards. A revised national curriculum will be introduced in 2027, followed by a new national curriculum in 2028.
Milon also said the government was taking steps to eliminate session jams to reduce delays in the education system.
To expand higher education opportunities for diploma engineers, the government is planning to establish two specialised government colleges, he said, noting that existing opportunities were limited and private university education remained too expensive for many students.
BUTEX Vice-Chancellor, teachers, students and university officials attended the programme.