As a token marking the start of book distribution, she gave textbooks to some primary, ebtedayee and secondary-level students of different educational institutions at a function at the International Conference Centre of the PMO (Prime Minister's Office) complex.

This time, some 8.25 crore textbooks, 6.53 crore for primary and 1.70 crore for ebtedayee level, have already been printed for free distribution among the students. The printing of 1.5 crore textbooks for secondary level has also been completed, the function was informed.

Primary and ebtedayee level books were printed for distribution among two crore students across the country while secondary-level books for one crore students.

Addressing the function Khaleda Zia called upon all irrespective of party and opinion, including teachers, students and guardians, to make effective contribution alongside government initiative to increase the standard of education at all levels and quick spread of quality education.

"Let us all, from respective position, put best effort in building a happy and prosperous Bang-ladesh," the prime minister told the function attended by ministers, academics, teachers and officials of the ministries and departments concerned.

She said her government has taken initiative to involve private sector in composing and publishing to ensure quality textbooks through open competition in line with the present free-market economy.

In the first phase, a private institution was given permission to publish seven textbooks of class IX and X for 2005 academic session, while 21 secondary level textbooks would be published by private organisations for 2006 academic session.

"We are hoping for improved and quality textbooks following this step," the prime minister said adding that textbook is one of the major auxiliary components in teaching, acquiring and disseminating education.

Khaleda said her government has taken effective steps soon after assuming the office to reach the textbooks to students in due time. As a result, new books for new classes could be handed over to the students at the start of academic sessions during the year 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005.

Already textbooks of primary and ebtedayee levels have been delivered all over the country and textbooks of secondary level will be available in market in due time, she said.

Education Minister Dr Osman Farruk, State Minister for Education ANM Ehsanul Huq and prime minister's adviser on Primary and Mass Education Jahan Ara Begum also spoke on the occasion.