Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the government wants to transform Bangladesh into an investment hub.
He made the remarks while attending the opening session of the international dialogue platform ‘Bay of Bengal Conversation (BOBC) 2026’ at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital on Saturday morning.
The three-day conference is being organised by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS).
The Prime Minister stated that our social safety net programs have been designed to prioritize the most disadvantaged individuals. Financial assistance will be delivered directly to mothers in each family through 'Family Cards,' starting with the poorest and most marginalized communities. 'Farmer Cards' will connect farmers to government incentives, agricultural services, and market systems. 'Health Cards' will ensure medical care for all. Finally, through 'Universal Cards,' citizens will be able to access integrated government services under a single umbrella.
He emphasized the need to bring healthcare to every household. We are working to recruit 100,000 healthcare workers, approximately 80 percent of whom will be women. They will provide primary medical care, health advice, and necessary referral services at the grassroots level. Simultaneously, we are placing special emphasis on maternal and child health.
The Prime Minister said, “I believe the education system should prepare students not merely for certificates, but for real life. We are working to ensure a joyful learning environment. Culture, sports, values, and ethics will play a vital role in the curriculum to shape our children's character. There will also be opportunities for them to learn a third language. Alongside general education, we will expand technical and vocational education.”
“Our vast youth population is a unique driving force for national progress. However, harnessing this demographic dividend requires skills and suitable employment opportunities. We are embracing technological transformation and artificial intelligence alongside enhancing language skills and creating jobs. We are supporting innovation, entrepreneurship development, and start-ups. We want our youth to compete on the global stage and transform 'brain drain' into 'brain circulation,” he added.
“Our government will provide free uniforms, school bags, mid-day meals, and scholarships starting from the first grade. Furthermore, we are extending the scope of free education for girls up to the undergraduate level.”
Around 200 speakers, 300 delegates and more than 1,000 participants from over 100 countries are taking part in this year’s conference.
Former heads of state, ministers, diplomats, policymakers, researchers, journalists and experts from different countries are also attending the event.
Former Serbian President Boris Tadic, former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed and former Malian Prime Minister Moussa Mara are among the prominent participants at the conference.
The BOBC 2026 is bringing together policymakers, academics, diplomats, researchers and other stakeholders to discuss major regional and global issues.
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