Staff Reporter :
Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury yesterday said the government wants to treat all citizens of Bangladesh equally and ensure equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender.
“We want to see all citizens of Bangladesh equally. We want to see boys and girls equally. The government is working to ensure equal opportunities for all,” he said.
The finance minister said this while addressing the closing ceremony of Children’s Rights Day-2026 and the celebration marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh Shishu Academy as the chief guest at Bangladesh Shishu Academy in the capital.
Amir Khosru said the country is currently passing through a difficult economic situation due to the impacts of war and various activities of the previous government.
“We are going through a difficult economic situation. We are facing this situation because of war and various activities of the previous government,” he said.
He stressed the importance of children in building a future Bangladesh where everyone can participate.
“As we envision building a Bangladesh for all, the future of these children is extremely important. I hope we will work together to provide children with clear guidance for their future and help implement it,” he said.
The minister said every civilised society needs an institution to nurture children’s creativity and intellectual development.
“Bangladesh Shishu Academy has completed 50 years. It is an important institution for shaping the future of children,” he said, adding that although the academy may not be able to reach every child directly, it must send a message on how the children of Bangladesh can build their lives.
Addressing parents, Amir Khosru emphasised the importance of communication between parents and children.
“Many parents do not want to answer when their children ask too many questions. This is not right. I urge you to answer all their questions because they need to learn and know everything,” he said.
He said children should receive appropriate education whenever they need it, stressing that academic excellence alone would not be enough to prepare them for the future.
“Children will have to do well not only in studies but also in sports, drawing and music. They will have to learn songs and develop themselves culturally so that they have a strong foundation in Bangladeshi culture,” he said.
Minister for Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Prof Dr AZM Zahid Hossain and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Selima Rahman, MP, attended the programme as special guests.
