Shishu Academy can play key role in nurturing children’s potential: Minister

State Minister for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin has emphasised that today's children are the future of the nation and must be nurtured as compassionate individuals alongside their academic development.

She made the remarks on Thursday (26 March) as chief guest at a discussion, prize-giving ceremony, and cultural programme organised by Bangladesh Shishu Academy to mark Independence and National Day 2026.

Describing Independence Day as one of the most significant dates in Bangladesh's history, she said it marked the beginning of the nation's birth in 1971. She expressed gratitude to the organisers for the opportunity to be with the children of Bangladesh Shishu Academy on such an important occasion.

Praising the children's enthusiastic participation, the state minister said the country must be built for the present young generation. She noted that Bangladesh Shishu Academy can play a vital role in developing children's talents and nurturing their creativity, morality, mental growth, and values.

She observed that the academy offers training in dance, music, recitation, drawing, and computer skills, adding that cultural activities help shape children's outlook and character, enabling them to grow into ideal citizens.

Addressing trainers and parents, Farzana Sharmin said the focus should not be limited to academic achievement. Greater attention, she said, should be paid to children's mental wellbeing, enjoyment of childhood, opportunities for play, and development of manners, etiquette, and self-expression.

She noted that if parents prioritised children's mental development as much as physical growth and academic results, the country would not face a crisis of humanity. She stressed that upbringing largely depends on the family, adding that children who build close relationships with their parents are far less likely to go astray.

The state minister instructed Bangladesh Shishu Academy to regularly seek children's input on desired training and enrichment. She also called on parents to provide recommendations for improving the academy's training programmes and modernising the institution.

She said the government has developed various plans for children and remains committed to their implementation. She also expressed hope that efforts to stabilise the curriculum would soon reach students nationwide.

Farzana Sharmin called on all to work together to build a safe and prosperous Bangladesh for future generations, where children can one day take responsibility for the nation with confidence.

At the conclusion of the discussion, she distributed prizes to winners of various competitions organised by Bangladesh Shishu Academy to mark Independence and National Day 2026.

The programme was chaired by Mosammat Arju Ara Begum of Bangladesh Shishu Academy. Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Shabnam Mostari attended as special guest. Also present were Director General of the Department of Women Affairs Zinat Ara, as well as officials, trainers, trainees, and guardians of Bangladesh Shishu Academy.

A cultural performance by child artists of Bangladesh Shishu Academy followed the event.