Supradip Chakma Urges CHT Integration for National Development

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 28th July 2025, 2:04 PM

Supradip Chakma Urges CHT Integration for National Development

Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Affairs Adviser, Supradip Chakma, has underscored the urgent need to integrate the hill region with the national mainstream in order to accelerate Bangladesh’s overall economic development.

Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled “Ethnic Diversity Day 2025”, organised by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs on Sunday evening at the Abdul Karim Sahitya Bisharad Auditorium of the Bangla Academy, Supradip stressed that ethnic diversity is a source of cultural strength, not division.

“The vibrant cultural heritage of Bangladesh is the product of its many languages, ethnicities, and communities,” he noted.
“Ethnic Diversity Day presents a unique opportunity to bolster communal harmony and national unity.”

Highlights from Supradip Chakma’s Address:

Focus Area	Details
Integration with Mainstream	Emphasised the need for socio-economic inclusion of CHT in national development.
Cultural Diversity	Described ethnic identity as the root of national culture and unity.
Education Reform	Highlighted linguistic challenges and the need for mother tongue-based education.
STEM Gaps	Admitted that students from CHT are generally weaker in science, ICT, and English.
Technology-Driven Learning	Announced Starlink satellite internet rollout in 100 hill schools within six months.
E-learning Vision	Urban teachers will instruct remote students online, ensuring quality parity.
Policy Priority	Called quality education his top developmental agenda.

Technological Revolution in CHT Education

In line with a declaration by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Supradip announced a technological transformation in hill education:

Starlink satellite internet to be installed in 100 schools within six months.
Enables remote learning and brings quality teachers virtually to isolated areas.
Aims to enhance technological skills for higher education and job readiness.

“This will revolutionise how children in remote hill areas learn and grow,” Supradip stated.

Distinguished Participants and Cultural Display

The seminar was chaired by Prof Mohammad Azam, Director General of the Bangla Academy.
KS Maung, a member of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Regional Council, delivered the keynote.

Other notable speakers included:

Alik Mree, human rights and cultural activist
Kya Ching Thay Dolly Rakhine, President, Dhaka Metropolitan Rakhine Buddhist Welfare Association
Cha Nu Mong, political leader

The event brought together government secretaries, academics, researchers, and cultural leaders, who collectively deliberated on preserving the languages, customs, and traditions of Bangladesh’s diverse ethnic communities.

Cultural Harmony in Action

The evening concluded with a vibrant cultural programme, arranged by the Shilpakala Academy, attended by Supradip Chakma and distinguished guests.

Ethnic communities showcased their distinctive heritage in stalls set up across the Bangla Academy grounds, symbolising unity in diversity and inter-community harmony.