Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said her government has been working to transform Bangladesh Army into a time-befitting, technologically well-equipped and modern force.

“We always want Bangladesh Army to be a time-befitting, modern and technologically well-equipped and we are working to attain the target,” she said.

The premier simultaneously said after assuming office her government established newer military units including new infantry divisions, brigade unit and training institutes as well for overall development of the army.

She said this while addressing a ceremony as the chief guest at the parade ground of the Bangladesh Military Academy (BMA), Bhatiary, Chattogram marking the President Parade 2019 of the passing out cadets of the 77th BMA Long Course.

The premier earlier distributed various prizes among 265 promising young officers who are stepping out of the Academy and entering into army career after successful completion of the course.

Of them, 234 are from Bangladesh including 27 women, 29 from Saudi Arabia, one each from Palestine and Sri Lanka.

Battalion senior under officer of the 77th BMA Long Course Sabir Nawaz Shaon has been awarded with the decorated “Sword of Honour” as the best all round cadet.

Besides, company senior under officer Md Barkat Hossain has got the “Army Chief Gold Medal” award for his best performance in the military subjects. The cadets also took formal oath on the occasion.

Bangladesh Army arranged a spectacular parade marking the occasion which the premier inspected from an open jeep and took salute.

She also joined an epaulette wearing ceremony and joined a photo session with the fresh army officers.

Cabinet members, chiefs of the three services, lawmakers, diplomats of foreign missions in Dhaka, political leaders, distinguished personalities, and high civil and military officials were present on the occasion.

Earlier on her arrival at the Academy, the prime minister was received by Chief of Army Staff General Aziz Ahmed.