Photo: BSS

BHOLA, April 28, 2026 (BSS) - The upazila administration has distributed sports equipment to over 200 educational institutions in Tajumuddin upazila of the district, aiming to promote physical activity among students and steer them away from drug use and excessive mobile phone dependency.

The distribution ceremony took place on Monday at the Tajumuddin Upazila Parishad auditorium, where Bhola Deputy Commissioner Dr. Shamim Rahman formally handed over the equipment to heads of various institutions.

As part of the initiative, a total of 356 cricket bats, 356 cricket balls, 356 sets of stumps, 178 footballs, and 356 sets each of chess and ludo boards were distributed among schools, colleges, and local clubs.

Officials from the education sector said that such efforts are intended to reduce students' engagement in negative online activities and encourage them to return to outdoor sports and recreational activities. 

The upazila administration expressed optimism that the initiative would contribute to both the physical and mental development of young learners.

Heads of participating educational institutions welcomed the move, describing it as a positive step that would help re-engage students in sports and foster a healthier lifestyle.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. Shamim Rahman addressed the programme as the chief guest, emphasizing that students should not be confined to textbooks alone. 

He highlighted the importance of sports in ensuring balanced physical and mental growth and reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting sports alongside education.

The event was chaired by Tajumuddin Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Rezaul Karim. 

Assistant Commissioner (Land) Antara Sarkar Adri, Officer-in-Charge of Tajumuddin Police Station Md. Mizanur Rahman, Upazila BNP General Secretary Omar Asad Rintu and Upazila Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Maulana Md. Abdur Rob, among others, were present.