PM Tarique Rahman stresses intellectual development of children

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday (6 October) said that creating opportunities for the intellectual development of children would strengthen the foundation of the country.

“As the foundation of a family depends on providing children with opportunities for intellectual development, the foundation of a country also depends on its children’s inner potential and intellectual growth,” the prime minister said while joining a programme marking Children’s Rights Day 2026 and the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh Shishu Academy.

Tarique Rahman recalled that as a child, he attended a Shishu Academy programme as a “little guest”. He said he and his younger brother had their writings published in the magazine Shishu during their childhood.

He also shared that he travelled back to his childhood memories after seeing his childhood story displayed on a board.

The prime minister stressed that children should not be confined to books. Rather, they should participate in sports, games and other physical and mental activities to further develop their hidden intellectual potential.

The three-day observance is being held at Bangladesh Shishu Academy in the capital from October 6 to 8, with this year’s theme, “Let every child have a secure future.”

Around 150 children welcomed the prime minister upon his arrival at the venue in the morning.

The event began with the national anthem, after which the prime minister took his seat alongside other guests.

Prime Minister’s wife and Ziaur Rahman Foundation Vice-Chairman Dr Zubaida Rahman was present at the programme, which was chaired by Women and Children Affairs Minister Prof Dr AZM Zahid Hossain.

The programme features cultural performances by children, the presentation of commemorative gifts to children and the unveiling of a souvenir titled Shaishab.

The prime minister is also scheduled to interact with children from different parts of the country through a videoconference.

He will also visit an exhibition featuring paintings by children and a photo gallery.

After the programme, the prime minister will visit the Children’s Museum building and inaugurate a solar panel system and a substation on its ground floor.