Photo: BSS

LAKSHMIPUR, July 4, 2026 (BSS) - Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee today said the government is giving the highest priority to expanding technical education at the secondary level alongside general education to equip students with practical skills.

"The government is attaching the highest importance to technical education in secondary schools in addition to general studies," he said while addressing the prize-giving ceremony of the annual sports competition at Pratapganj High School in Chandraganj upazila of the district as the chief guest.

Earlier, the minister inaugurated a newly constructed academic building of the school. 

He said the government is extending various forms of support to improve students' academic performance.

"As a pilot programme, the government has introduced a midday meal initiative at primary schools. At the secondary level, it is focusing on technical education so that students can acquire practical skills alongside conventional academic learning," he said.

Referring to infrastructure development, Anne said a proposal has been submitted for the Noakhali-Lakshmipur railway line project, which is expected to receive approval soon.

"Once the railway becomes operational, people of Lakshmipur, including those in Chandraganj, will directly benefit from improved connectivity," he said, adding that the government has already undertaken several development projects and is working relentlessly to implement them.

The minister also said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had provided leadership to the July Mass Uprising while staying abroad.

Chaired by President of the Pratapganj High School Managing Committee Anwar Hossain Bacchu, it was also attended by Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Kathoai Pru Marma, Chandraganj UNO Nilufa Yasmin Nipa, Acting Principal of Chandraganj Kafil Uddin University College Priyabrata Chowdhury, Officer-in-Charge of Chandraganj Police Station Morshed Alam and Pratapganj High School Headmaster Sirajul Islam, among others.