With the theme “You once built the world; today I will nurture dreams and care for you with love,” the 35th International Day of Older Persons was celebrated in Cox’s Bazar with various events honoring the elderly and promoting intergenerational solidarity.
Marking the occasion, the District Administration and the Department of Social Services jointly organized a colorful rally and a discussion meeting on Tuesday.
The rally started from the premises of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office and paraded through the town’s main streets. Later, a discussion was held in the conference room of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, with Additional District Magistrate Md. Shahidul Alam is attending as the chief guest.
In his speech, the Additional District Magistrate said that the government has made public services more age-friendly at both national and local levels. He urged all concerned departments to remain vigilant in ensuring that these services are properly implemented. He also highlighted several issues, including the establishment of separate healthcare facilities for senior citizens and the provision of reserved seats for them in public transport.
Shahidul Alam further emphasized that compassion toward the elderly must begin within families. He added that showing respect and care to older individuals in every sphere of society is a moral duty of the younger generation.
Md. Safiuddin Safi, Deputy Director (Additional Duty) of the Department of Social Services, presided over the discussion. Among others who spoke at the event were Additional Superintendent of Police Ahmed Payer, Press Club President Mahbubur Rahman, Medical Officer Dr. Koninika Dastidar from the Civil Surgeon’s Office, District Education Officer Golam Mostafa, Assistant Upazila Education Officer Md. Hanif Mia, Assistant Director of the Department of Social Services Md. Abdul Awal, President of Satkania-Lohagara Association Jaber Mulluk, Principal of Hashemia Kamil Madrasa Rahmat Salam, Expourul Director Engineer Kanon Pal, and Consultant of the Service and Assistance Center for the Disabled Dr. Md. Saiduzzaman Majumder.
Speakers at the event discussed ways to enhance humanitarian values, social dignity, and tolerance toward the elderly. They also exchanged views on strengthening service programs and addressing the challenges faced by senior citizens.
Sazia Afrin, the Social Services Officer of Cox’s Bazar Sadar Upazila, conducted the program. Officials from various government departments, leaders of senior citizens’ associations, and other stakeholders attended the event.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
