President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stated that there is no alternative to sports in keeping the youth generation away from drugs, mobile phone addiction, and frustration.
He made the remarks after formally inaugurating the Arafat Rahman Koko 18th National Summer Athletics Competition 2026 at the National Stadium on Friday evening by releasing balloons and festoons.
Highlighting the transformative power of athletics, the President noted that sports teach discipline, perseverance, and self-confidence to young people. Expanding sports activities, he added, is essential to protect the youth from destruction and to build a healthy, vibrant nation. Describing athletics as the mother of all sports, he emphasized that an athlete’s speed, power, agility, and stamina undergo their true test on the track. Strengthening the foundation of athletics will naturally enhance the nation's overall capabilities in other sports.
President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir further stated that sports represent a powerful symbol of national glory and unity. He remarked that flying Bangladesh’s flag on international podiums and hearing the national anthem played on global stages are matters of immense pride, uniting the nation under a single identity as Bangladeshis.
The President praised Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for his key role in advancing sports from the grassroots level and expressed his sincere gratitude. He highlighted various government initiatives aimed at expanding sports, including plans to introduce sports cards, sports allowances, talent-hunting programs, and modern sports villages at the district level. He also noted that directives have been issued to ensure at least one playground in every union, calling on authorities to reclaim illegal land for sports fields and ensure equal opportunities for female athletes.
Dedication was offered to the memory of prominent sports organizer Arafat Rahman Koko, with the President praying for the departed soul. Following his address, the President declared the competition open, watched the 100-meter sprint finals, and presented medals to the winners.
The event was presided over by Bangladesh Athletics Federation President Mohammad Abdullah Zaber, with State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haq speaking as the special guest, and Federation General Secretary Advocate Ali Imam Tapan delivering the welcome address.
— Daily Best News Desk • Fearless in the search for truth
Reported by Correspondent, Staff, Dhaka • Edited by the Daily Best News desk. Send corrections to [email protected].
