Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged the new generation never to consider themselves small, but to prepare themselves to lead the construction of a beautiful Bangladesh in the future.
Speaking as the chief guest at the closing and prize distribution ceremony of “Notun Kuri Sports 2025-26” at Bangladesh Army Stadium on Monday, Tarique said future skilled doctors, engineers, architects, scientists, and international-standard athletes would emerge from today’s children and adolescents.
“You must give equal importance to sports and creative activities alongside your studies,” he said, adding that students should focus intently when studying and play with full devotion during games. He said if the youth can develop their skills, the nation will move forward.
The prime minister watched the girls’ football final from the sidelines.
The event was attended by Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Home Minister Salauddin Ahmed, State Minister Shyama Obaid, Mir Helal, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, and Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan, alongside senior military and civil officials.
State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque presided over the ceremony, while Sports Secretary Mahbub-Ul-Alam delivered a speech.
Government support and global ambitions
Tarique assured the youth that the government remains committed to providing maximum support for their education, sports, culture, and creative talents.
“We are by your side. If you want to study, we will provide opportunities. If you want to play, we will create the facilities,” he said, while encouraging them to develop into worthy citizens.
He congratulated the young players, parents, teachers, and coaches, expressing hope that these athletes would one day win international trophies for Bangladesh.
He further requested the media to prioritise the successes and potential of children and adolescents alongside other national news.
Environmental and social responsibility
The prime minister also called for active participation in environmental conservation. He urged children not to litter, to help keep rivers, canals, and ponds clean, and to develop a habit of planting at least one tree every year.
Additionally, he advocated for humane treatment of animals, noting that every creature in nature is a national asset.
Tournament results
In the competition results, Sylhet region claimed the boys’ football title by defeating Mymensingh region 1-0. In the girls’ final, Rangpur region secured the championship with a 4-0 victory over Rajshahi region. The prime minister distributed trophies, medals, crests, and prize cheques to the winners.
The “Notun Kuri Sports 2025-26” was inaugurated on 2 May at Sylhet District Stadium. Approximately 170,000 young athletes participated in eight disciplines starting from the district and upazila levels, with the national phase held at various venues in the capital.
