Great athletes will emerge, says PM

New and great athletes will emerge to take Bangladesh forward in sports, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said, while praising the young winners of a national sports competition.

The prime minister was speaking at the 43rd Bangladesh National School and Madrasa Summer Sports Competition organised by the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education on Saturday.

“This sporting event will take our boys and girls forward and they will compete in the world arena one day.”

The prime minister then handed out prizes to the young winners in the concluding day of the event at Mirpur’s Bangabandhu National Stadium.

“National and international-level athletes will emerge from among those who have won in various competitions today. The boys and girls of Bangladesh will create world records.”

“I’ve always liked to prioritise sports. Sports and cultural competitions enhance the body and mind.”

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman formed ‘Bangladesh National School and Madrasa Sports Association’ in 1972, she said.

“Now it is a renowned sports body,” said Hasina, his eldest daughter.

She also highlighted various measures taken by her government to promote a culture of sports in the country.

“Competitions are arranged in summer and winter. They are being held in every district, regional and national level,” she said.

The children cheered seeing the prime minister entering their arena amid rain.

“It’s pouring, but our boys and girls are still so excited to be here. No disaster can curb our spirit”

She hoped the children would not get sick from the rain and said prize-distribution ceremony has been curtailed because of it.

“We wanted to hold a display. We’ll hold it next time when the weather will be favourable.”