PM urges student development thru education, sports

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called on young students to develop themselves through education and sports, describing them as the “future of the nation.”

He made the remarks on Saturday afternoon while addressing children at the “Notun Kuri Sports 2026” event held at Sylhet District Stadium.

“I want each of you sitting in the gallery to become ambassadors of Bangladesh. You will have to take responsibility for the country because you are the future,” the prime minister said.

Encouraging holistic development, he added that students should focus on studies while also engaging in sports and cultural activities. “Those who want to sing will sing, those who want to become musicians will have the opportunity, and those who want to be athletes will be supported,” he said.

Addressing the children as the chief guest of the event, Tarique departed from his prepared speech and spoke directly to them. “I don’t feel like giving a formal speech today. Let me talk to you,” he said, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience.

He expressed optimism that future international standard athletes, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and national leaders would emerge from among the children present. “You will lead the country—becoming MPs, ministers, prime ministers, even presidents,” he added.

Highlighting their role in shaping the nation, he said, “Our time is coming to an end. Bangladesh is now looking toward you. We will begin the work, but you will carry it forward.”

When he asked the students if they were ready, the entire stadium responded with a resounding “Yes,” to which he replied, “Yes, everyone will do it, Inshallah.”

The event, organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, was held simultaneously across all 64 districts. A documentary on Notun Kuri Sports was screened, followed by the launch of its theme song, “Amra Notun, Amra Kuri.”

Students from Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP) performed acrobatic displays in eight sports disciplines, including cricket, kabaddi, football, athletics, chess, badminton, swimming, and martial arts. The prime minister watched the performances and applauded the participants.

He also formally inaugurated the Notun Kuri Sports programme nationwide and unveiled its trophy and logo. Later, he met participating students on the field and exchanged greetings with them.

Speaking about the origin of the initiative, Tarique said the idea emerged about four and a half years ago during a discussion in London with State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque.

“While discussing sports over dinner, we decided to launch Notun Kuri Sports in Bangladesh,” he said.

He emphasised that the programme is designed for children across the country, noting that participants from all districts were connected virtually during the event.

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Among others present were Tarique’s spouse Zubaida Rahman, Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury, adviser Humayun Kabir, Whip GK Gaus, Members of Parliament Tahsina Rushdir Luna and MA Malek, and Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury, along with senior government officials.

The initiative is being implemented by the Department of Sports under the supervision of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, as a continuation of the popular 1980s talent search programme “Notun Kuri,” now expanded to identify sporting talent nationwide.