TBT DESK: Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed has called on policymakers and communities to treat education spending as an investment in Bangladesh’s future, not merely an expense.

“By investing in education, we are not merely helping individual students—we are shaping the future of the country,” he said on Saturday, addressing a scholarship award ceremony of the Brahmanbaria District Association, Dhaka.

Praising Brahmanbaria as the “Land of Heritage and Harmony”, Dr Salehuddin lauded the community’s unity and foresight in fostering a culture of knowledge and innovation.

The Association marked its Executive Committee Installation and Scholarship Award Ceremony at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB), an event that underscored both the district’s proud heritage and its drive for social progress.

This year, a total of 312 scholarships were awarded to meritorious students—25 at Honours level, 182 at HSC level, and 105 at SSC level. The initiative aims to nurture academic excellence and provide opportunities for young people from Brahmanbaria.

Association President MA Khalek highlighted the district’s long history of producing leaders, scholars and artists. “Today we renew our commitment to building a Brahmanbaria recognised for its talent and contribution, not for negative stereotypes,” he said.

General Secretary Engineer Md Khaled Hossain Mahbub (Shyamal) described the ceremony as “a call to action” to project a positive image of Brahmanbaria both nationally and internationally.

The programme concluded with cultural performances that celebrated the district’s traditions and reinforced the message of unity, heritage, and pride.