Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee. File photo

DHAKA, Aug 29, 2026 (BSS) - Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee today said ethics is a greater virtue than academic excellence in education.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at a reception organised by Lakshmipur Society for GPA-5 achievers from Sadar and Chandraganj upazilas.

Lakshmipur Society President and Bangladesh Football Federation Vice-President Wahid Uddin Chowdhury Happy presided over the programme.

Anee said the government is giving priority to education to build a drug-free society.

"Drug is being brought into the country from neighbouring countries as part of a conspiracy to deprive our nation of its talent. They are conspiring to destroy our image, achievements and talent. So, we want the young generation to remain alert and vigilant," he said.

"If we can give priority to education, we will be able to protect society from degradation," he added.

The minister said the country is being run amid scarcity and hardship, adding that the government assumed responsibility after the election amid a "pile of ruins."

He said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is attaching considerable importance to education and health.

Vice-Chancellor of Lakshmipur University of Science and Technology Dr Hanif Murad, Lakshmipur Deputy Commissioner SM Mehedi Hasan, District Council Administrator Sahab Uddin Sabu and Principal of Lakshmipur Government College Professor Md Yusuf, among others, attended the programme as special guests.