The 54th National Cooperative Day will be celebrated today (Saturday) with the theme "Cooperatives will build the country through equality and justice" or "Sammo O Somotay, Desh Gorbe Somobay".
The central programme marking the day will be held at the head office of the Department of Cooperatives in Agargaon, Dhaka, where Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (LGRD) Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain will attend as the chief guest, said a PID handout on Thursday, reports BSS.
To mark the occasion, a discussion, video documentary presentation, and distribution of the 'National Cooperative Award 2024' among the best cooperative societies and individuals will be held.
Additionally, special supplements will be published in different national dailies.
The information was disclosed in an official circular issued by the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, the handout added.
UNB adds: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called for strengthening the cooperative movement to build an inclusive, equitable and self-reliant Bangladesh.
He made the call marking the '54th National Co-operative Day'.
In a message issued on Friday, Prof Yunus extended his warm greetings and best wishes to all members of cooperatives and citizens across the country.
"I am delighted that the 54th National Co-operative Day is being celebrated nationwide with due dignity under the theme 'Cooperatives build the nation through equality and equity," he said.
The Chief Adviser said social engagement was essential for successful implementation of any development initiative.
"By harnessing the immense potential of cooperatives, this can be achieved effectively. Co-operatives are not just financial institutions but also platforms addressing various social issues," he said.
Prof Yunus highlighted the crucial role of cooperatives in improving the lives of disadvantaged people, developing skilled manpower and accelerating economic progress.
He also said the interim government has taken various steps to modernise and revitalize the cooperative sector. "Through cooperative-based initiatives in agriculture, fisheries, livestock, savings, credit, and cottage industries, we can build a self-reliant and equitable new Bangladesh," he said, wishing success of all the programmes taken marking the day.
