DHAKA : Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today sought the cooperation of primary school teachers in raising children with humane values, saying children must be brought up as humane people to build a 'humane Bangladesh'.

"Humane citizens are needed to build the country. You are the ones who are responsible for developing those compassionate citizens. If children are grown up as humane individuals, a humane Bangladesh will be built," he said while addressing the primary school teachers at a function in the city. 

The Prime Minister handed over the Primary Education Medal-2026 at the function was held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre.

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon presided over the event, jointly organized by the Directorate of Primary Education and the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education.

Describing the primary school teachers as the architects of shaping children into good human beings, he said, "You should be careful so that no child grows up to be cruel towards people, animals or birds. They should not be cruel to anyone. So, it is your responsibility to raise children with compassion." 

At the beginning of the programme, a documentary was screened highlighting the current state of primary education and the contributions of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to the development of education. 

The Prime Minister said, "After coming to this programme today, it feels as I have entered a factory where everyone is an architect of building human beings."

Tarique Rahman said, "Your role in instilling morality and values among children is unparalleled. You are the ones who can spread family and social values among them."

"I know you have some limitations and some challenges. We will try to resolve those. However, we will arrange better training for you so that you can further spread the knowledge you acquire among your students," the premier added.

The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of sports alongside academic studies for children. 

Calling upon children to plant one tree every year during the monsoon, he said, "Every year during the rainy season, you should plant a tree. As the tree grows, you too will grow. The tree will become your friend. Sitting under it, you will find relief from fatigue and enjoy peace."

State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj, and PM's Adviser on Education and Primary and Mass Education Mahdi Amin also spoke at the function.

Secretary to the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education Md Sakhawat Hossain delivered the welcome address. Children from different districts across the country attended the ceremony.

At the event, medals were presented to the best students selected through various stages of nationwide competitions, as well as to outstanding individuals and institutions for their special contributions to the education sector.

A debate competition was also held between two groups of young students on the motion whether mobile technology is an important aid to education. 

The programme later featured colourful cultural performances, including songs, recitations, dance and drama by children, which the prime minister enjoyed from the audience.