Photo: Collected

DHAKA, May 3, 2026 (BSS) - A wide range of priority issues came up for discussion on the first day of the Deputy Commissioners (DC) Conference-2026 held today at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital.

According to a Cabinet Division press release, the meeting discussed implementing canal excavation programmes through voluntary labour involving students, unemployed youths and the general public, instead of relying on machines.

It also discussed forming committees, to be headed by Deputy Commissioners and comprising relevant stakeholders, to ensure proper utilization of allocations provided to BADC, LGED, the Bangladesh Water Development Board and project implementation offices for canal excavation.

The conference emphasized taking advance preparedness measures to reduce potential losses from disasters.

The establishment of Export Processing Zones (EPZs) in Barishal, Barguna, Pirojpur, Lalmonirhat and Gazipur districts was also discussed.

Participants discussed undertaking income-generating programmes to improve the living standards of plainland ethnic communities, including Orao and Mahato.

On health services, the meeting stressed maintaining adequate stocks of anti-rabies and anti-venom vaccines and remaining alert to prevent measles.

It also emphasized strengthening cleanliness drives to prevent dengue and conducting dog birth control vaccination programmes by the Department of Livestock to curb rabies.

The conference discussed operating mobile courts to shut down illegal clinics, prevent adulterated medicines and ensure safe food and water.

Ensuring maternal and child healthcare services and increasing bed capacity at district sadar hospitals were also discussed.

Regarding health education and family welfare, the meeting discussed ensuring law and order during medical college admission tests and maintaining proper management and security of Medical Assistant Training Schools or Institutes.

On secondary and higher education, the conference discussed implementing commitments related to education and human resource development outlined in the government's election manifesto-2026.

It also discussed forming a pool of retired teachers and completing SSC and HSC examinations within the stipulated academic year.

Under technical and madrasah education, the meeting discussed modernizing madrasha and Qawmi education by expanding access to science, technology and IT alongside religious studies, as well as ensuring vocational education.

Regarding primary and mass education, the conference discussed introducing a uniform school dress from Class I to ensure inclusive and discrimination-free education.

It also discussed organizing year-round sports and cultural activities, introducing the "Notun Kuri" sports programme, mid-day meals and ensuring playground facilities in every school.

The inclusion of practical subjects such as land laws and traffic laws in the new curriculum was also discussed, the release added.