International Older Persons Day observed tomorrow with various programmes
The 36th ‘International Older Persons Day’ will be observed tomorrow under the theme ‘Rethinking for Longer Lives’.
On the occasion, President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have issued separate messages extending their sincere greetings to the older citizens of the country.
The Department of Social Services under the Ministry of Social Welfare has taken various programmes to mark the day.
The programmes include rallies, discussions, publication of special supplements in national newspapers and build up social awareness on the dignity of older persons.
Wishing good health and peaceful lives for all older persons in Bangladesh and around the world, the President, in his message hoped that alongside the government, private institutions, social and philanthropic organisations, affluent individuals and every family would come forward for welfare of the older persons.
“Love for older persons, their smiling faces and a safe old age should be our commitment,” the President said.
Extending sincere respect and greetings to all older citizens of the country, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, in a separate message, said, “Older persons are the foundation of our families and society. Today’s Bangladesh has been built on the sacrifices, experience and wisdom of older persons. Therefore, a caring approach towards the older population is essential for building a welfare-oriented, just and humane Bangladesh.”
On the occasion of the day, the Department of Social Services has instructed all district and upazila offices to observe the day in a befitting manner tomorrow.
United Nations General Assembly, on 14thDecember, 1990, decided to observe October 1 every year as International Older Persons Day worldwide.
In line with this landmark decision, Bangladesh is also observing the day since 1991.
