President Mohammed Shahabuddin -File photo

DHAKA, July 10, 2026 (BSS) - President Mohammed Shahabuddin today called for transforming the country's vast population into skilled human resources, saying such efforts are essential to fulfilling the aspirations of the country's youth and building a prosperous future.

In a message issued on the eve of World Population Day 2026 to be observed tomorrow, the President extended his greetings and noted that Bangladesh is joining the global community in observing the day.

He said Bangladesh is one of the world's most populous countries, with one-third of its population comprising young people, who are the nation's future, adding that the new generation expects the government to meet their basic needs and create opportunities for both personal and community development.

The President said transforming the country's large population into human resources would not only fulfil the aspirations of the younger generation but also pave the way for a prosperous Bangladesh.

Referring to this year's theme, "Realizing the hopes and aspirations of young people-Today and for the future," he said the theme is both timely and significant.

He reiterated the government's commitment to developing young people into educated, skilled, self-reliant and morally responsible citizens. To achieve this goal, he said, various initiatives have been undertaken to modernize the education system, making it more employment-oriented and productivity-focused.

The President said special priority is being given to technical and vocational education and training to foster creativity and leadership among young people and equip them with skills in digital technology and innovation.

At the same time, he said, extensive awareness programmes are being carried out to prevent drug abuse, child marriage, violence and other forms of social degradation, while social safety net programmes are being expanded and the strict enforcement of the law is being ensured.

The President said good health and planned families are prerequisites for a healthy and productive nation as well as sustainable socio-economic development.

In this context, he said, the government has undertaken extensive programmes for the development of the country's health sector.

The President also underscored the need to make health and family planning services, maternal and child healthcare, reproductive health and adolescent health services more effective and accessible to all. 

He called on families, educational institutions, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders to work alongside the government in supporting the country's youth.

He expressed the hope that sincere efforts would continue to ensure the optimum use of the existing healthcare infrastructure and provide quality family planning, maternal and child healthcare and adolescent health services.

The President also wished every success for the programmes marking World Population Day 2026.