The programme creates opportunities for selected groups to learn about the United States, said a press release.

Boys and girls in class VII-X from two schools will receive the bags in each of the five districts of four divisions.

The American Centre, US Embassy Dhaka, with the assistance of "Change Makers," a non-governmental organisation, has undertaken the plan to distribute the bags to schoolchildren in Sylhet, Narail, Khulna, Barisal and Rajshahi.

The bookbags contain a Bangla-English dictionary, picture book on American life and stationary items.

In Khulna and Narail, approximately 1,100 boys and girls will receive the bags and books.

In a ceremony at the Royal Hotel in Khulna yesterday, 300 students from the Alia Madrasa and the Nesaria Kamil Madrasa attended an interactive presentation by Director Jon Cebra of American Centre, US Embassy.

The students learned about the American education system, freedom of religion and American family activities. They also heard remarks from the Madrassa principals -- Alhaj Moulana Mohammad Saleh and Moulana Muhammad Rahmatullah.

At every district during the schoolbag giving ceremony, an American diplomat will give a presentation on life and culture in the United States: family life, holidays, sports, school, religion and working.

The "Shared Futures" programme communicates the friendship of the people of the United States and America's desire to show the similarities between Americans and Bangladeshis, including common values, globalisation, education and self-empowerment.