Youth must embrace reading to build knowledge-based nation: Food Minister Afroza Khanam
Staff Correspondent
Food Minister Afroza Khanam MP on Tuesday stressed that the youth must develop a strong habit of reading books to build an enlightened, skilled, and knowledge-based Bangladesh capable of navigating future challenges.
She made the remarks as the chief guest at the fifth day of the Zia Smriti Book Fair-2026, organized at the central level to mark the 48th founding anniversary of the BNP.
Speaking at the event, Food Minister Afroza Khanam noted that books do not merely impart knowledge but also spark critical thinking, preserve history, and guide future directions.
The Food Minister paid rich tribute to late President Ziaur Rahman, describing his life, political thought, and vision for nation-building as crucial chapters in Bangladesh's history. She urged the new generation to read his works, including Ekti Jatir Jonmo and Amar Rajneetir Ruprekha, to gain insights into his statesmanship, patriotism, and simple lifestyle.
Paying profound respect to late former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, the Minister highlighted that her long political struggle remains an integral part of the nation's political narrative, recommending books such as Begum Khaleda Ziar Jibon O Songgram for political researchers and readers.
Presided over by Syed Imran Saleh Prince, the discussion featured Dr. Mahadi Amin as the key speaker. Advocate Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas MP, Mahmuda Habiba MP, Professor Dr. Harun Al Rashid, and Sayeed Mahmud Jewel spoke as special guests.
