We can't expect lasting peace without reducing inequality: mass education advisor

The mass education advisor highlights the need for everyone to play a role in fostering societal change

Primary and Mass Education Advisor Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar has said there can be no hope for "long-term peace" in the country if "discrimination cannot be reduced".

Speaking at an event at the Primary Teacher Training Institute (PTI) in Dhaka’s Mirpur on Wednesday, he said: “As long as we fail to reduce disparity, as long as we do not fulfil the fundamental needs outlined in our Proclamation of Independence and the Constitution—food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, and education for all—we cannot hope for lasting peace.”

“It is our collective duty to work towards this from our respective positions. It is essential for our own well-being.”

The primary and mass education ministry said in a statement that the event was held as part of celebrations for Independence and National Day, with Bidhan attending as the chief guest.

The advisor said the recent movement initially focused on the quota system but evolved into a broader demand for systemic change.

Bidhan said, “The movement began over quotas in government jobs. But how many positions exist in government service? How many benefit from quotas? The total number of posts has not increased.

“But the movement compelled people to consider the larger context. Why did others join the protests? Not for quotas.

“They joined because they were frustrated with the system, dissatisfied with governance. They believed change was necessary for a better life,” he added.

The advisor said true empowerment comes from education. “When a child becomes literate, they gain real capability. This creates a form of social mobility.

“Initially, they may focus only on their own progress, but when obstacles arise, they will be compelled to work for collective advancement.

“If we can empower our children, we will see them contributing to social change,” he added.

Citing China as an example, he said: “A country with such a massive population has achieved significant economic progress because they prioritised two key areas—education and healthcare.

“These are not just resources for a particular group; they are national assets. The people themselves are the country’s greatest resource.”

He added, “What defines a strong population? They must be physically fit and educated. If a nation has healthy, skilled, and educated citizens, it cannot fall behind. China stands as proof of this. A country cannot develop equitably without addressing education and healthcare.

“Healthcare should never be a matter of choice; it must be a fundamental right. Education, too, must be universal and treated as a right. These principles are embedded in our Constitution, and we must implement them effectively.”

The advisor urged people to commit to upholding the spirit of independence and honouring those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.

Bidhan said, “If we truly want to build a happy and prosperous country, there is no alternative. Let us honour our martyrs and those who repeatedly sacrificed for independence by fulfilling our duties.

“It ultimately benefits us all—unless, of course, we plan to leave the country. But if we choose to stay, this is the only way forward,” he concluded.