Dhaka: State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to enhancing quality education, skills development, and youth empowerment through stronger cooperation with UNESCO. She emphasized the need for collaboration in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), including language training and internationally recognized certifications, to improve the skills of prospective migrant workers.

According to United News of Bangladesh, the discussions took place during a meeting with Dr. Susan Vize, UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, who paid a courtesy call on the State Minister. During the meeting, the State Minister expressed Bangladesh’s readiness to host the UNESCO Director-General at a mutually convenient time and acknowledged UNESCO’s ongoing support in various sectors, including education, culture, science, and digital transformation.

The State Minister highlighted Bangladesh’s historic partnership with UNESCO, noting significant milestones such as the proclamation of International Mother Language Day and the inscription of the traditional Tangail Saree weaving art on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Dr. Vize reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s national development priorities and praised the country’s active cooperation in the organization’s initiatives.

Dr. Vize also expressed interest in expanding collaboration in education, culture, youth engagement, and sustainable development. She underscored the potential of Bangladesh’s creative economy to leverage the talent and innovation of its youth. The State Minister welcomed this focus and stressed the importance of integrating the creative economy into Bangladesh’s national development planning.

Both parties reiterated their commitment to strengthening the partnership between Bangladesh and UNESCO, aiming to support inclusive, sustainable, and knowledge-based development in the country.