Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan on Saturday urged students to remain focused on their studies and attend classes regularly, saying proper education is essential for building a strong foundation for the future.

"You must prepare yourselves for the future through education. There is no room for negligence when it comes to studies. Students must attend classes and I urge teachers to ensure that no classes are missed," he said.

The minister made the remarks while addressing a programme as the chief guest at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) of Dhaka University (DU), stressing the need to maintain a balance between academic pursuits and other activities.

"Of course, you will engage in politics, social policy and economics, but not at the expense of your education," he said.

Highlighting the importance of quality higher education, Moyeen Khan said academic excellence plays a vital role in establishing a country's strength and leadership globally.

"We often talk about the United States as the world's leading nation. Many believe it is because of its wealth or advanced fighter jets, tanks and weapons. I disagree," he said.

"In my view, the United States is a leading nation because, under any recognised standard, 70 to 80 of the world's top 100 universities are American. That academic excellence has helped elevate the country to the top," he added.

Recalling the rich academic heritage of Dhaka University, the minister urged all concerned to uphold the prestige and reputation of the country's premier institution of higher education.

"The tutorial system at Dhaka University was modelled after Oxford University. If we do not preserve the reputation of this prestigious and traditional institution -- if students wander around without studying, classes are not held, and teachers and students remain absent -- how will we move this nation forward?" he questioned.

Addressing the organisers of the programme, the Dhaka University Debating Society (DUDS), the Minister praised their activities and urged them to play a broader role beyond organising debates. "Your role goes beyond  holding debates. I urge the club's moderators, teachers and student leaders to use this platform to advance the university's academic, curricular and co-curricular activities," he said. "Through such efforts, this university can nurture skilled citizens and leaders capable of establishing Bangladesh as a nation of glory on the world stage," he added.

SM/CitizenTimes