Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged students to focus not only on sports but also on academic and creative activities.

“Besides sports, you must also excel in your studies and cultural activities. However, it is important that you participate in different kinds of sports,” he told the prize-giving ceremony of the Primary School Gold Cup Football Tournament followed by the final matches of boys and girls at the Bangladesh Army Stadium.

The premier said his government mulls organize this Gold Cup Football Tournament at the secondary school level from next year. 

“We plan to introduce the Prime Minister’s Cup from next year,” he said.

At one point of his speech Tarique Rahman asked the children how they enjoyed playing football on the green field. When he asked who wanted to play sports, many students raised their hands, which pleased him.

The prime minister said 22 lakh boys and girls participated in this year’s football tournament. 

“It is not enough to play only football. You should also play cricket and learn swimming. You are the future of the country. Therefore, you must move forward in every field and become skilled in all areas,” he told the students.

The program began with a display of documentary accompanied by patriotic songs.
 
Students and spectators warmly welcomed the prime minister when he waved his hands to the crowd, toured the stadium, greeted the students, and congratulated them.

He then officially inaugurated the girls’ final match by releasing balloons. 
Ministry of Primary and Mass Education organized the national event. 

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said, “Before the election, we promised that if elected, we would promote sports throughout the country. We are working to fulfill that commitment.”

Tarique Rahman hoped the students would represent Bangladesh across the world through various sports in future.

In the girls’ final, Jorgacha United Government Primary School of Santhia Upazila, Pabna became champions by defeating Achargao Government Primary School of Nandail Upazila, Mymensingh, by 4–2 goals.

In the boys’ final, Darial Mia Government Primary School of Bakerganj Upazila, Barishal became champion by defeating Darirampur Model Government Primary School of Trishal by 1–0 goal.

Photo: PMO

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