Prime Minister Tarek Rahman has announced that free Wi-Fi will be introduced in 10,568 educational institutions across Bangladesh. He shared this information on Wednesday during a question-and-answer session in the Jatiya Sangsad.
The Prime Minister said the plan includes 2,336 technical institutions and 8,232 madrasa institutions. The rollout is expected within the next 180 days. The announcement came in response to a question from Member of Parliament Shimul Biswas.
He said the initiative is part of the government’s 180-day action plan. This plan aims to implement key promises made in the BNP election manifesto. He added that several priority projects have already started and are showing progress.
Tarek Rahman said the government is focusing on modernising both technical and religious education. He noted that internet access is important for learning and skills development. The free Wi-Fi programme aims to improve digital access for students and teachers.
The Prime Minister also spoke about support for low-income families. He said a pilot programme is providing a monthly allowance of Tk 2,500 to 37,814 female heads of households. This programme is active in 13 districts and three city corporations. It uses “Family Cards” to deliver the support.
In the agriculture sector, the government has waived loans up to Tk 10,000. This applies to crops, livestock, and fisheries. A budget of Tk 1,567 crore has been allocated. Around 1.31 million farmers are expected to benefit from this decision.
He also mentioned a pilot scheme under the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Under this plan, 9,102 people working in different religious institutions have received honorariums through bank transfers. The government plans to expand this programme further.
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The Prime Minister said steps are being taken to introduce e-Health Cards. A project is awaiting approval. Once approved, the service will start in five districts: Khulna, Noakhali, Bogura, Sirajganj, and Narsingdi. The goal is to improve access to healthcare services.
He also spoke about plans to develop playgrounds and public spaces. A central committee is working on strategies for both urban and rural areas. There is a proposal to create large playgrounds in every union and upazila.
In addition, a committee has been formed to improve high-tech parks and ICT centres. The government is also working on steps to introduce PayPal services in Bangladesh.
The parliamentary session began at 11:00 AM under Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed. Lawmakers took part in the scheduled question session.
