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Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Sunday said that in the era of artificial intelligence (AI) and rapid technological advancement, it is not enough for future generations to be only technically skilled; they must also be equipped with moral education alongside digital literacy.
He said the proper use of talent and technology cannot be ensured without a strong moral foundation among the youth.
The minister made the remarks while addressing a national seminar titled “Role of Moral Education in Implementing the Philosophy of ‘Bangladesh Comes First’” as the chief guest at the Daffodil Tower Auditorium in the capital.
The seminar was organised by the Bangladesh Student Welfare Trust, reports BSS.
Swapon said society and the economy are becoming increasingly digitalised, with everything from personal communication to business and commerce now dependent on digital platforms.
He, however, noted that many sectors in the country are still struggling to keep pace with technological advancement.
“We need to quickly transform the state into a modern digital entity. At the same time, emphasis should be placed on promoting content on social media that helps build values among the youth,” he said.
Referring to the political changes of August 5, the minister said that if a statesman or any responsible individual lacks proper moral standards, the consequences would not be positive.
He stressed the importance of practising human values and controlling what he described as the innate brutal instincts of people.
“Our education system and curriculum should incorporate moral education so that students can develop a healthy mindset from an early age,” he added.
The minister also said there had previously been a culture of criminalisation in the country, where there was little scope to discuss positive initiatives or existing problems openly.
According to Swapon, the country has now emerged from that “stifling situation”, creating an environment where people can speak freely.
He urged everyone to utilise the opportunity to help build a moral society.
The seminar, chaired by Prof Dr Abdul Latif Masum, vice-chairman of the Bangladesh Student Welfare Trust, was also addressed by Nurul Haque, former caretaker government adviser Prof Md Moinuddin Khan, and Dr Md Sabur Khan, chairman of Daffodil International University.