Dr. Zubaida Rahman, spouse of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, emphasized the need for coordinated efforts in education, technology, and healthcare to build the future of children while addressing the 'Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit,' held at the invitation of U.S. First Lady Melania Trump.
In her speech on Tuesday local time, she said, 'The future of every nation is written in the lives and development of its children. The education, values, and opportunities we provide them today will shape the nations of tomorrow.'
Thanking First Lady Melania Trump, she noted that bringing together representatives from across the world on a common platform to work for children’s welfare is highly significant.
Dr. Rahman highlighted that Bangladesh’s newly elected government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is working to build a more inclusive and forward-looking nation. Initiatives such as the ‘Family Card’ and ‘Farmers Card’ have already been launched to provide financial support to households and ensure children grow up in safe and nurturing environments.
As a medical doctor, she reiterated her commitment to ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for every child. “Alongside treatment, emphasis must be placed on prevention, especially from the earliest stages of life,” she said, adding that her involvement with the Ziaur Rahman Foundation and ‘Surovi’ has strengthened her dedication to education, youth development, and community well-being.
Dr. Rahman also pointed out that artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize education, particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh where access to trained teachers and resources remains uneven. She said the government has already taken steps to modernize education by providing teachers with tablets and computers, introducing digital curricula, and incorporating multimedia-based classrooms.
'Technology, particularly ed-tech, plays a crucial role in reducing disparities between urban and rural communities,' she said, while also stressing the importance of ensuring the safe and ethical use of technology for children.
On women’s empowerment, she said Bangladesh has a strong legacy, noting that former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia advanced human rights and introduced free education for girls up to grade 12. The current government, she added, is committed to ensuring free education for women up to the postgraduate level.
She also mentioned that the foundation of the garment industry under late President Ziaur Rahman created employment opportunities for millions of women, strengthening families and improving children’s prospects.
Highlighting the importance of partnerships, Dr. Rahman said Bangladesh aims to work with the private sector and global partners to expand safe digital spaces, train teachers, empower parents, and improve the quality of education for all.
In her concluding remarks, she said, 'By sharing knowledge, learning from one another, and collaborating across borders, we can strengthen not only our nations but also the future of our children and the world they will inherit.'
She ended her speech by expressing gratitude to the U.S. First Lady.