Prime Minister Tarique Rahman addressed the closing and prize-giving ceremony of ‘Notun Kuri Sports 2025-26’ at the Bangladesh Army Stadium. Photo: PMO

DHAKA, July 27, 2026 (BSS) – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today said Bangladesh could become a beautiful and prosperous nation if today's children grow into capable and responsible citizens.

“If today's children can build themselves properly for the future, only then will it be possible to build a beautiful and prosperous Bangladesh,” he said.

The Prime Minister made the remarks while addressing the closing and prize-giving ceremony of ‘Notun Kuri Sports 2025-26’ at the Bangladesh Army Stadium in the city this afternoon.

Addressing the children and young athletes, the Prime Minister said his government is working to build the country in the right direction, but that effort would succeed only if the younger generation prepared themselves for the future through both education and sports.

“We are working to build the country properly. But we can do this work successfully only when you - those sitting in the gallery today and those who have received awards on the playing field - prepare yourselves for the future,” he said.

“Now, while studying, you have to study with dedication, and in the same way, you have to play with the same commitment,” the premier added.

Calling upon the children to focus on self-development, the Prime Minister said Bangladesh's future is depending on them.  

“We may have started the work of building Bangladesh, but it is you who will carry that work forward. The stronger you make yourselves, the more beautifully you will be able to build your Bangladesh,” he added.

The premier said, “Among the thousands of children present in the pavilion and galleries today are the successful doctors, engineers, architects, internationally acclaimed cricketers, swimmers and tennis players of tomorrow, who will take the country forward”.

“These young children and athletes will one day bring trophies and honour to the nation from the international arena. So, my little friends devote yourselves wholeheartedly to self-development,” he added.

Seeking the children’s cooperation, the Prime Minister said, “My dear little friends, I want one favour from all of you. This country belongs to all of us. If we all work together to protect the light, the air and the environment of this country, we will be able to live in a beautiful environment”.
 
“You have surely seen people throwing different kinds of waste and plastic bottles around your neighbourhood while walking along the roads. Whether it is in ponds, rivers or around your homes, if you see anyone doing this from now on, please ask them not to. If necessary, pick up the litter and dispose of it in the designated place,” he added.

He further urged the children to work together to keep rivers, canals and ponds clean. “There is another task for you. If someone throws waste into ponds, rivers or canals, and if you can, join hands with your friends and clean it up so that our environment, our rivers and our ponds remain clean. This will allow people to walk around and enjoy these places,” he said.

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