Dhaka, April 27 -- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has announced that girls' education up to degree level will be made free under a new government initiative.

Addressing a public gathering in Jashore's Sharsha on Monday following the inauguration of the Ulshi canal re-excavation project, he noted that women constitute half of the nation's 200 million-strong population.

Tarique recalled that former prime minister Khaleda Zia had introduced free education for girls up to intermediate level, first at school and later at higher secondary stage.

He said the government now plans to extend that programme further by ensuring free education for women up to degree level.

The premier also said stipends will be introduced for female students who ac...