Mr. Supradip Chakma, Advisor to the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs, stated, We aspire to integrate with the mainstream and contribute to the nation’s overall economic development. He emphasized that ethnic diversity is the source and strength of our culture. The vibrant cultural heritage of Bangladesh has been shaped through the unity of various languages, ethnicities, and communities. He remarked that the observance of Ethnic Diversity Day opens a unique opportunity to strengthen communal harmony and national unity.
Mr. Chakma made these remarks as the chief guest at a seminar titled “Ethnic Diversity Day 2025”, organized by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, held last evening at the Abdul Karim Sahitya Bisharad Auditorium of Bangla Academy.
In his speech, the Advisor further noted that arrangements are being made to provide technology-driven quality education to students from ethnically diverse groups in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. He identified ensuring quality education as his top priority. Due to linguistic diversity and limitations in textbooks, mother tongue-based education is still being conducted on a limited scale, which, he said, requires special attention for further development.
Mr. Chakma also pointed out that students from hill communities tend to be weaker in science, mathematics, ICT, and English. Therefore, skilled teachers will be appointed to enhance their proficiency in these subjects. He announced that, in line with the declaration of Honorable Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Starlink satellite internet connectivity will be introduced in at least 100 schools in the Chittagong Hill Tracts within the next six months, enabling e-learning. He described this initiative as a technological revolution in education. Students in remote hill areas will be able to attend online classes, and experienced teachers from urban centers will be able to teach, ensuring quality parity. This will help hill students become proficient in technology, which will support their higher education and career development.
The Advisor outlined his strategic priorities: Quality education as the first agenda, livelihood development as the second, and environmental sustainability as the third, which will be overseen by the designated Environmental Advisor.
The seminar was presided over by Mohammad Azam, Director General of Bangla Academy. The keynote speaker was K.S. Maung, Member of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Regional Council. Other discussants included human rights and cultural activist Alik Mree, President of the Dhaka Metropolitan Rakhine Buddhist Welfare Association Kya Ching Thay Dolly Rakhine, and political figure Cha Nu Mong. The seminar was attended by government secretaries, senior officials, distinguished researchers, writers, and cultural activists. Discussions focused on the preservation and development of the languages, cultures, and traditions of Bangladesh’s ethnic communities.
Following the seminar, a cultural program was enjoyed by Advisor Supradeep Chakma and other guests, organized by the Shilpakala Academy. Various ethnic groups showcased their cultural heritage in individual stalls set up in small tents across the Bangla Academy premises, symbolizing ethnic unity and mutual harmony. The seminar was lively and informative, with active participation from journalists, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts.