The National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Bangladesh organised the Para Swimming Competition and Talent Hunt Programme for the inaugural Bangladesh Para Games 2026 at the National Swimming Complex in Mirpur on Wednesday.
Nearly 100 para swimmers from different parts of the country participated in the competition across several categories, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for para sports in Bangladesh. The event was arranged as part of the build-up to the country's first-ever Bangladesh Para Games and aimed at identifying promising athletes for future national and international competitions.
Female para swimmer Sumaiya Akter emerged as one of the standout performers of the meet after winning gold medals in both the 50-metre freestyle and 50-metre breaststroke events. In the same categories, Rajani Khatun secured the silver medal, while Shyamoli Khatun claimed bronze.
In the men's division of the 50-metre breaststroke, Sagar Islam captured the gold medal with an impressive display in the pool. Several other athletes also showcased their potential during the day-long programme, which combined competition with talent identification activities.
Following the conclusion of the events, medals and certificates were distributed among the winners by NPC vice-president Nasirul Islam. Chairman of sponsor organisation Astha, Mosharraf Hossain Chowdhury, NPC joint secretary Sanowar Hossain, NPC secretary general Dr Maruf Ahmed Mridul and Bangladesh Swimming Federation general secretary Jakir Hossain were also present at the ceremony.
Officials expressed hope that such initiatives would strengthen the country's para sports structure and inspire more differently-abled athletes to take up competitive sport. Bangladesh has been gradually expanding its para sporting activities in recent years, with growing participation in athletics, archery, swimming and other disciplines ahead of the Bangladesh Para Games 2026.
