Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Aug 11, 2026 (BSS)-University Grants Commission (UGC) Member Prof. Dr Abdullah-Al-Mamun today said that the government is undertaking various initiatives in education, sports, culture and employment to protect the young generation from drug and internet addiction.

He made the remarks in his inaugural address at a workshop titled “Drug and Internet Addiction, Confusion in Career Selection: The Way Forward” held at the International Mother Language Institute here.

The Bangladesh Anti-Drug Federation and the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) jointly organized the workshop.

Emphasizing a humane approach and social resistance to combat drug abuse, Prof. Mamun said, “We have to be compassionate toward drug users and take necessary measures to bring them back into the mainstream of the society through treatment. However, the networks involved in drug trafficking and the drug kingpins must be dealt with firmly through social and political measures. The government must play the most effective role in this regard.”

Noting that awareness campaigns alone are not enough to keep the young people away from addiction, he said the government is introducing an “Education with Happiness” programme in the curriculum to ensure a joyful and positive environment for the young people.

Prof. Mamun also said various competitions, including the “Notun Kuri” programme and the “Prime Minister Gold Cup,” are being organized to engage children, adolescents and youths in sports and cultural activities, which will help to develop a positive mindset among them.

Highlighting these initiatives to make the young people economically self-reliant, Prof. Mamun said the government is working with a target of creating one crore jobs within a specific period to reduce youth unemployment. The plan will be implemented through increased domestic and foreign investment, expansion of the public and private sectors and technical training.

He stressed the need to enhance the language and professional skills of the young people seeking employment abroad. He also said support is being provided for information technology, technical training and entrepreneurship development.

Prof. Mamun urged the young people to make full use of the government’s available opportunities and facilities to become self-reliant.

Representatives of various government and private organizations, academics, relevant stakeholders and a large number of young people participated in the daylong workshop.