JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY : Education Minister Dr. A N M Ehsanul Hoque Milon today said Bangladesh can become the world's number one nation if proper emphasis is given to education and human resource development.

"If we give importance to education, it is possible for Bangladesh to become the world's number one nation," he said while addressing the orientation programme of newly enrolled students of Jahangirnagar University for the 2025-26 academic session at the university's Zahir Raihan Auditorium.

"The Prime Minister is giving the highest priority to education. We will transform our population into human resources. This responsibility belongs to us all, and you students must also take it seriously," he said.

The minister said the government would review Jahangirnagar University's research budget and take steps to improve the quality of research.

"University admission processes will be synchronised with the HSC examination schedule from 2027 so that students do not lose valuable time," he added.

Referring to campus infrastructure, Milon said he had asked the vice-chancellor to submit a written report on students' problems.

"I want the old residential halls to be renovated quickly. The shortage of buildings and other infrastructural facilities will also be addressed," he said.

Urging the freshers to contribute to national development, he said, "Many countries are experiencing population decline, while Bangladesh's population is increasing. If we can equip our young people with education and skills, this large population can become our greatest strength."

JU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan presided over the programme, attended by Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr. Md Shamsul Alam, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Admin) Professor Dr. Mohammad Nazrul Islam, Treasurer Professor Dr. M Abdur Rab, teachers, officials and student representatives.