Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma has called on aspiring athletes from the region to emulate the talent and dedication of football stars Rupna Chakma and Monika Chakma, who played pivotal roles in securing the SAFF Women's Championship for Bangladesh.
Speaking at a reception and awards ceremony at the Khagrachhari Circuit House for the U-17 girls' football team, who recently emerged champions in the Chattogram Division of the National Gold Cup Football Tournament 2025, the adviser emphasised the importance of hard work and rigorous training for achieving excellence in sports.
"You must aim to become as talented as Rupna and Monika Chakma. Continuous improvement and dedication are crucial for elevating your performance," said Supradip Chakma.
He also assured that the Hill Tracts Affairs Ministry would continue supporting local athletes to enhance their skills, expressing optimism for historic victories from the region in both football and cricket.
Recognition and Infrastructure Development
During the event, Supradip Chakma handed over a cheque for Tk100,000 to the winning players and participated in a photo session. He later inaugurated the tournament by releasing balloons.
The adviser also visited the Kamalchhari Pilot High School campus to inspect the progress of a hostel construction project designed to accommodate 60 students. Expressing satisfaction with the project's progress, he highlighted the initiative’s role in providing better facilities for young athletes.
"The hostel will offer an environment conducive to both sports and education, enabling students to achieve their full potential," he added.
Additionally, Supradip Chakma visited the Kamalchhari Pilot Para Hill Buddhist Mission, home to 150 female students residing in the Maple House Girls' Hostel, funded by Canadian donors. The campus also features an ICT building funded by South Korea.
Commitment to Youth Empowerment
The adviser reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for sports development in the CHT, encouraging young athletes to aim for national and international recognition.
Prominent attendees at the event included Khagrachhari District Council Chairman Ziruna Tripura, Joint Secretary of the Hill Tracts Affairs Ministry Kangkan Chakma, Khagrachhari Deputy Commissioner ABM Iftekharul Islam Khandaker, Police Superintendent Mohammad Arefin Jewel, and other local dignitaries.
The adviser also participated in the Youth Festival 2025 at Khagrachhari Stadium earlier in the day, where he inaugurated the First Division Cricket League 2025 under the theme "Change the Nation, Change the World."
