Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Photo collage

LONDON, June 13, 2025 (BSS) - Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus held a telephone conversation on Friday with former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. 

The discussion centered on Bangladesh's ongoing economic recovery efforts and the urgent need to enhance educational opportunities for Rohingya refugee children.

Gordon Brown, who currently serves as the United Nations Special Envoy for Global Education, commended Prof Yunus for his leadership in steering Bangladesh through economic challenges. 

He praised Yunus's initiatives aimed at stabilising the economy and promoting inclusive growth.

The two leaders expressed deep concern over the educational plight of Rohingya children residing in Bangladesh's refugee camps. 

With over half a million children lacking access to formal education, both emphasised the critical importance of providing learning opportunities to prevent a "lost generation".

"We must ensure that Rohingya children grow up with hope and the tools to build a better future," Prof Yunus stated, highlighting his government's commitment to mobilising support for the Rohingya community.

Gordon Brown indicated his willingness to collaborate with Bangladesh to expand educational programmes within the camps, drawing on his global advocacy for education. 

He also expressed interest in visiting Bangladesh in the coming months to assess the situation firsthand and explore avenues for support.

The conversation also touched upon broader issues of mutual interest, including the reform agenda of the interim government and its role in facilitating a peaceful transition to democracy.