DEBIGANJ, PANCHAGARH, June 1: State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad has said a significant number of children, adolescents and young people are currently at risk due to excessive use of social media and exposure to drugs, stressing the need to encourage them to be engaged in outdoor activities.
He made the remarks while addressing a programme as the chief guest on Debiganj Public Ground at 5:30 pm on Saturday.
The state minister said the government has undertaken initiatives to involve students in sports and cultural activities from an early age to address the situation. Under the "New Kuri-26" programme, efforts will be made to promote various sports, including football, cricket, volleyball and badminton.
He said if parents can encourage their children to spend more time on playgrounds, the negative impact of mobile phone use and social media can be significantly reduced.
"Sports play a vital role in the physical and mental development of children and adolescents, while also helping build a healthy, aware and disciplined generation," he said.
Praising the success of Boda Toaster Football Academy, the state minister said the achievement is a bright example of the potential of young people in the northern region. He also announced plans to construct a mini stadium in Boda Upazila to further expand sporting activities.
Among those present at the event were Debiganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sabuj Kumar Basak, Debiganj BNP President Abdul Gani Bosunia, municipal BNP President Sarkar Faridul Islam, local dignitaries and players.
At the end of the programme, the state minister handed over commemorative crests and medals to the champion players.
