Technology-Based Initiatives Needed to Preserve Cultural Heritage: Culture Minister

Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury has said that modern technology-based initiatives must be taken to preserve the country’s ancient books, manuscripts, and cultural heritage that are gradually disappearing.

He said cultural institutions need to become more effective and people-oriented in order to engage the younger generation with history, literature, and culture.

The minister made the remarks today while addressing an exchange of views meeting after visiting the Jessore District Shilpakala Academy and Jessore Institute Public Library.

Earlier, Nitai Roy Chowdhury visited several traditional cultural institutions in Jessore and exchanged views with their officials and stakeholders.

During the visit, he inquired about the ongoing activities, infrastructural conditions, and historical significance of the institutions. He expressed satisfaction after observing the rare manuscripts, ancient documents, and valuable book collections preserved at the Jessore Institute Public Library.

The minister described these collections as invaluable assets of the nation’s history, heritage, and intellectual tradition.

Later, he joined a discussion meeting with local cultural personalities, eminent citizens, and relevant officials. Speakers at the meeting highlighted the potential, limitations, and various challenges faced by the institutions.

They also sought effective government support for expanding cultural activities, modernization, and preserving historical heritage.

The culture minister said Jessore is one of Bangladesh’s richest regions in terms of art, literature, and culture. “The cultural heritage of this region is not only a local asset but also a matter of national pride. The government is working to preserve, develop, and promote this heritage globally,” he said.

He assured that necessary steps would be taken to address the problems and challenges facing the institutions.

The minister also said the Ministry of Cultural Affairs would continue providing overall support for infrastructural development, preservation of rare collections, and expansion of cultural activities.

Senior district administration officials, officers of the District Shilpakala Academy, members of the Jessore Institute Public Library management committee, and local cultural personalities were present at the meeting.