Uphold country's Image: PM

She made the call when over 100 madrasa teachers under the banner of Bangladesh Jamiatul Modaresin met her at the International Conference Centre.

Jamiatul Modaresin expressed their commitment to extend all-out cooperation to any step of the government against those who are involved in the activities against the true spirit and values of Islam.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

There are 2.5 lakh teachers and 40 lakh students in about 27,000 Ebtadayi, Dakhil, Alim and Kamil madrasas, the meeting was told.

Senior vice-president of the Bangladesh Jamiatul Modaresin AMM Bahauddin, also editor of the daily Inqilab, led the delegation.

They raised some demands, particularly academic recognition of Fazil and Kamil degrees equivalent to graduation and post-graduation (master's degree), providing scope so that Fazil and Kamil certificate-holders can take part in the BCS and other examinations, and setting up an affiliating Arabic University.

The prime minister emphasised the need for working unitedly to lead the country forward as well as

consolidating the country's independence and sovereignty.

Referring to recent political developments, Khaleda said all have to work and proceed cautiously so that any wrong step doesn't cause suffering to people and the country. "True spirit and values of Islam will have to be upheld."

She said her government has been working for the welfare of all sections of people -- farmers, workers, students and ulema.

Education Minister Dr Osman Farruk, Moulana Mohammad Saleh, Khulna divisional president of the organisation, Moulana Shamsul Alam Chowdhury, joint secretary (Chittagong division), and Moulana Kabi Ruhul Amin Khan also spoke.

AMM Bahauddin said the mainstream Islamic parties in Bangladesh are now united under the leadership of Khaleda Zia and the unity would exist in the future.