Commerce, Industries, and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muqtadir emphasized the government's ongoing efforts to economically empower women by expanding livelihood opportunities and technical education. Speaking as the chief guest at a programme in Sylhet Sadar Upazila Auditorium, he highlighted the need for women to become self-reliant to strengthen the economic foundation of families and contribute to the country's overall development.
Initiatives for Economic Empowerment
The programme was organized under the Prime Minister's Office's "Living Standards Improvement Programme for Small Ethnic Communities" for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Beneficiaries received bicycles, sewing machines, and educational scholarships. Muqtadir announced that women would be provided training in aquaponics-based fish and vegetable cultivation, with government incentives to help them start production after completing the training.
Emphasis on Technical Education
Highlighting the importance of skills development, the minister said the government is placing special emphasis on technical and vocational education alongside general education. Initiatives are underway to introduce compulsory technical education in selected subjects at the SSC and HSC levels. Additionally, a Technical Training Institute (TTI) will be established in Sylhet Sadar to offer training in computer operation, driving, and other technical skills.
Muqtadir stressed the need to accelerate canal excavation to ensure irrigation during the dry season, stating that no cultivable land should remain fallow if the country is to maintain food self-sufficiency. Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Abdullah Al Mamun chaired the programme, and several local leaders addressed the function as special guests.
Earlier in the day, the minister inaugurated a free medical camp at Lakkatura Tea Estate in Sylhet city. Later, he attended the inauguration of the Ulto Rath Yatra (return chariot procession) as the chief guest.
