Sport plays a pivotal role in fostering the intellectual and personal growth of children and young people, cultivating a spirit of healthy competition, discipline, perseverance, responsibility and duty.
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus made these remarks in a statement on Sunday (6 April), marking National and International Day of Sport for Development and Peace.
Expressing delight over the occasion, he said, “I am pleased to know that, as in previous years, the Ministry of Youth and Sports is celebrating National and International Day of Sport—2025. I extend my greetings and congratulations to the ministry, all other government bodies, local and international organisations, sports federations, associations, boards and organisers for hosting this year’s events in the spirit of youth empowerment.”
He wished the observance of the day every success.
The Chief Adviser added that the present interim government, formed with a pledge to transform the nation, has launched the countrywide "Festival of Youth—2025" to revitalise Bangladesh’s vast youth population.
“I believe the theme of this year’s sport day—‘Youth Participation for Sporting Excellence’—aptly aligns with the spirit of International Day of Sport,” he noted.
The celebration, grounded in social, economic and environmental values, has provided a platform for young people to showcase their creativity, intellect, competence and critical thinking.
Bangladesh’s youth have consistently delivered success on the international sporting stage.
Cricket, in particular, has brought the nation considerable pride and recognition abroad.
In 2024, the national women’s football team clinched the title at the SAFF Women’s Championship in Nepal. Recalling another achievement, the chief adviser highlighted Bangladesh’s bronze-medal finish in women’s kabaddi at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championship in Tehran—its first such success in two decades.
Bangladesh also emerged joint champions in the SAFF Under-19 football tournament and claimed the title in the Under-16 category in Nepal. In a historic feat, the national Under-21 men’s hockey team qualified for the World Cup for the first time.
Additionally, the youth team triumphed at the SAFF Under-20 Championship in Nepal.
