PM: Include agriculture in curricula

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has asked the authorities concerned to include agriculture and its practical aspects in curricula to encourage students to properly know about cultivation system. She said: "Many people do not want to go to the farmland for agricultural works when they complete their education. The Agriculture Minister is here. "I think, special measures should be taken to make our students curious and sincere about agricultural works...they should have a subject on agriculture alongside a practical one." The prime minister made the statement while distributing "Bangabandhu Jatiya Krishi Purashkar" (Bangabandhu National Agriculture Award) for Bengali year 1423 at a function at Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Thursday. She said agriculture is the lifeline of Bangladesh economy. "We'll gradually shift our dependence to industry, but not by axing the agriculture as it will provide raw materials for industries apart from ensuring food security." The prime minister went on saying: "Students should learn this [agricultural works, there is nothing to be ashamed of if anyone plants a sapling with in his or her own hands." She said the government wants children to acquire knowledge about agricultural works from their childhood and also have practical knowledge. Hasina said her government is helping all concerned adopt modern technology in agriculture and providing equipment to farmers. She said the government gives "Bangabandhu Jatiya Krishi Purashkar," the highest state recognition for contributions to the development of Bangladesh's agriculture sector. Five gold, nine silver and 18 bronze medals in 10 categories are given to different organizations and individuals each year for their contributions to agriculture development and research. The awardees received medals, cash and certificates from the prime minister. Award recipient Farhana Yasmin shared feelings on behalf the award winners. Presided over by Agriculture Minister Matia Chowdhury, the function was addressed, among others, by Fisheries and Livestock Minister Narayan Chandra.