ET Desk: Minister of Labour and Employment Ariful Haque Chowdhury MP stated that our future generation is exceptionally talented and full of potential. With the right guidance, they will propel the country far ahead. Seeing the young students who have achieved success today, I am extremely optimistic about their future.

The Minister made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the prize-giving ceremony for an essay and article competition—organized for college and university students to mark ‘International Workers’ Day and National Occupational Health and Safety Day 2026’—held on Sunday, July 26, at the conference room of the Labour Bhaban in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar.

Speaking as the chief guest, the Labour Minister stated that the current government is labour-friendly. No nation can progress without a skilled workforce. By leveraging its skilled workforce, China has advanced significantly on the global stage today.

Highlighting the importance of safe working environments for workers worldwide, Ariful Haque Chowdhury observed that while developed nations prioritize workplace safety above all else, factories in our country still fail to accord the issue the importance it deserves.

While instructing labor inspectors on this matter, the Minister stated that during inspections, they should not merely complete formalities but should engage directly with workers to understand their issues and take necessary measures accordingly; for this workforce is a valuable national asset, and the country’s overall development is possible only through its effective utilization.

Additionally, the Minister urged the youth and the current generation to devote their time to the pursuit of knowledge and creative activities rather than wasting it unnecessarily on social media; at the conclusion of the event, the Minister handed over certificates and crests to the winning students.

Md. Abdur Rahman Tarafder, Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, was present as a special guest. Md. Abdur Rahim Khan, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, presided over the event.