The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

President Professor Dr Iajuddin Ahmed reminded the media of playing both creative and responsible role, as he inaugurated a new satellite channel "Diganta Television" yesterday.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre, he said the role of the mass media is undeniable in establishing a knowledge-based society.

Professor Iajuddin said mass media plays a significant role in exchanging information, flourishing art and culture, mobilising public opinion on national issues and projecting important national and international events.

The President said since the mass media directly engages the vast majority of the people in its activities, its role should be both "creative and responsible".

He hoped Diganta TV will meet this expectation.

The President said challenges of the globalisation have put the countries in tough competition. The two-pronged challenge is in economy and in protecting indigenous culture and tradition.

Professor Iajuddin said "to face the challenge, we must attain excellence in science and technology alongside imbibing with patriotism and morality."

He said Bangladesh must move forward standing on her strong base of culture, principle and morality. "We must be very careful so our own identity and tradition do not disappear under the influence of the globalisation," he told the function.

Senior leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh attended the meeting while BNP leaders Selima Rahman and ASM Hannan Shah, among others, also witnessed the opening session.

Commodore (retired) MA Rahman, Chairman of Diganta Media Corporation, also spoke on the occasion.

Diganta Television is the ninth private satellite television station and a sister concern of the Naya Diganta newspaper.