Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon has underscored the importance of education in further strengthening Bangladesh-China relations.
He made the remarks while addressing the China-Bangladesh Education Cooperation Luncheon in Guangzhou, attended by senior government officials, university leaders, education representatives and industry partners from both countries.
The event focused on four key areas: opportunities for Bangladeshi students to pursue higher education in China, university-level cooperation, joint research, and vocational education and skills development, according to a press release received today (26 August).
Focus on people-to-people connectivity
Prime Minister’s Adviser and Prime Minister’s Office Spokesperson Mahdi Amin also addressed the discussion, stressing the importance of building on the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
He highlighted the government’s vision for third-language education and the growing importance of Chinese-language learning for Bangladeshi students.
The democratic government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is committed to undertaking “radical reforms” in the education sector in line with its election manifesto, he said.
As part of the reforms, the government plans to prioritise technical and vocational education and make it compulsory, while introducing third-language education, including Mandarin, to equip young people with skills needed in the international job market, Mahdi said.
Referring to the government’s goal of making education universal and employment-oriented, he said Bangladesh wants to increase scholarships for Bangladeshi students, undertake joint research initiatives and develop modern laboratory facilities by drawing on the experience of China’s leading polytechnic and technical education institutions.
He also urged Chinese universities and industrial enterprises to invest in Bangladesh and called for greater exchanges among teachers, researchers and students of the two countries.
“At the same time, close cooperation is needed to ensure the welfare of Bangladeshi students currently studying in China,” he added.
New centre unveiled
Representatives of Chinese universities shared proposals on student exchanges, academic cooperation, vocational education and skills training.
A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of the China-Bangladesh International Service Center for Industry-Education Integration.
The centre will facilitate cooperation between educational institutions and industries in Bangladesh and China, particularly in vocational education, skills development and joint programmes.
The event was described as another step towards deepening Bangladesh-China ties through education, skills development, language learning and greater people-to-people connectivity.
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