The government will inaugurate a programme to distribute free school uniforms among students of government primary schools on August 16 in Katiadi, Kishoreganj.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will inaugurate the programme at Mirzapur Government Primary School No. 27 in the upazila. The inauguration will formally launch the nationwide initiative to provide free uniforms to students of government primary schools.

State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj announced the launch of the programme on Sunday.

The government has undertaken various support programmes to retain students in primary schools, ensure regular attendance and create an inclusive and student-friendly learning environment. The free uniform distribution programme is part of these initiatives.

The state minister said the government is providing various forms of assistance to bring children who are currently out of school into the education system while also helping enrolled students continue their studies. The initiative to provide free school uniforms is also part of this support.

A new uniform design has already been finalised for students of government primary schools. Under the approved design, girls will wear frocks, while boys will wear half-shirts and shorts. Comfort, practicality and uniformity have been prioritised in designing the uniforms, taking into consideration the children’s age and daily school activities.

Earlier, the new uniform design was presented at an inter-ministerial meeting held at the Education Ministry’s conference room on April 29. At the meeting, Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Haque Milan said the government planned to launch free uniform distribution as a pilot project at two schools in each upazila. At the time, the programme was scheduled to begin in July.

The meeting also discussed providing other necessary educational materials to students. Initiatives were taken to involve various business organisations in the programme. The organisations are expected to provide educational materials through donations according to their capacity.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has pledged to provide school bags, clothing and shoes to 100,000 students.

As a result, the government is also planning to gradually bring other essential educational materials for students under the assistance programme, alongside free uniforms.