Tangail, Aug. 01 (V7N) – State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku has said the government has placed the highest priority on education, introducing initiatives such as the mid-day meal programme and measures to improve the quality of educational institutions across the country.

He made the remarks on Saturday (Aug. 1) after inaugurating the mid-day meal programme and attending a parents' gathering at Ichapur Sher-e-Bangla High School in Kalihati Upazila of Tangail as the chief guest.

Speaking to reporters after the event, the state minister said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has attached the highest importance to the education sector and directed efforts toward ensuring students receive quality education in a supportive environment.

Tuku said the government is also emphasizing students' participation in co-curricular activities alongside academic studies so they can develop diverse skills and prepare for multiple career opportunities after completing their education.

He stressed that improving the country's education system must begin at the primary level.

The state minister noted that free primary education was introduced during the tenure of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and was later expanded up to the degree level. He added that various scholarship programmes are also being implemented, which are contributing significantly to the expansion of education.

He further said ensuring adequate protein intake for schoolchildren is one of the government's priorities, adding that authorities are working on plans to meet the nutritional needs of students through school-based programmes.

The event was chaired by Abdur Razzak, president of the school's ad hoc committee. Among others addressing the programme were local Member of Parliament Lutfor Rahman Matin, Kalihati Upazila Nirbahi Officer Farzana Akhter, and the school's headmaster Abdul Mannan Mollah.

Speakers highlighted the importance of the mid-day meal programme in improving educational standards, reducing dropout rates and ensuring students receive nutritious meals on a regular basis. They said such initiatives would encourage school attendance while contributing to better health and academic performance.

Teachers, students, parents and local residents attended the programme.

END/SMA/AJ