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Sports play vital role in building self-reliant nation: PM
Published : Wednesday, 21 October, 2026 at 8:13 PM
Observer Online Report
Collected Photo
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated on Wednesday that sports are no longer limited to entertainment or physical fitness, but have gained recognition as a viable profession.
In a message issued on the occasion of the "Koko 18th National Summer Athletics Competition-2026" on Wednesday (October 21), he noted that to establish sports as a profession in Bangladesh, the government has included sports education in the school syllabus.
The Prime Minister said sports serve as a major medium for developing physical capacity, mental resilience, discipline, confidence, and leadership qualities. He emphasized that sports extend beyond competition to strengthen harmony, mutual respect, and patriotic values. He added that sports play an irreplaceable role in building a healthy, conscious, productive, and self-reliant nation.
Describing athletics as a fundamental foundation of sports, he mentioned that events like running, jumping, and throwing help develop speed, power, endurance, coordination, and mental toughness.
Athletics also highlights a nation's overall sporting capability on the international stage. Therefore, he called for planned and continuous initiatives to develop domestic athletics, hunt grassroots talent, and train international-standard athletes.
The Prime Minister highlighted that numerous talented youths across rural and urban Bangladesh possess immense potential for national and international success. What they need is a supportive environment, modern training, skilled coaches, scientific practice, proper nutrition, medical care, and regular competition opportunities. National competitions provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their abilities and inspire the next generation.
He stressed the importance of talent hunting at the grassroots level and building effective coordination among educational institutions, local sports clubs, district and divisional sports associations, and national federations. Alongside regular training, he emphasized addressing athletes' education, health, security, and future livelihood to create a respectful professional environment.
Emphasizing sportsmanship, he noted that true sports beauty lies in fair competition, discipline, honesty, and respect for opponents. He urged all participating athletes to compete with dedication while calling on organizers to maintain transparency and professionalism.
The Prime Minister described youth as the nation's greatest asset, noting that sports protect young people from drugs, frustration, and anti-social activities while instilling punctuality and teamwork. He also stressed ensuring equal opportunities and facilities for female and rural athletes, regardless of geographical or financial limitations.
Calling for collective support from the government, federations, sponsors, media, schools, and parents, he expressed hope that the "Koko 18th National Summer Athletics Competition-2026" would strengthen the foundation of national athletics and elevate Bangladesh on the global stage.
-SA
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
