Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury spoke at the Chattogram District Stadium during the tournament’s inauguration ceremony. Photo : BSS

CHATTOGRAM, August 14, 2026 (BSS):  Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has expressed concern that a significant number of children and adolescents are currently spending an excessive amount of time on mobile devices.

They need to be redirected from mobile addiction back to outdoor activities. Additionally, their participation in cultural events should be encouraged. 
He made the remarks while inaugurating Shaheed Zia and Khaleda Zia Memorial Inter-School Gold Cup Football Tournament 2026 here today.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Chattogram City at the Chattogram District Stadium arranged the tournament.

Amir Khosru emphasized that sports should not merely be viewed as a form of entertainment, but also as a viable economic sector and career path. Millions of individuals are engaged in sports, both directly and indirectly.

Besides, measures have been implemented to integrate the sports economy into the broader economic framework, he said.

Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury stated that a child's comprehensive development cannot be achieved solely through academic learning.
In addition to education, the next generation must be nurtured through a blend of sports, cultural activities, and technical training. Sports are vital in fostering healthy and skilled citizens, he added.

It is essential to cultivate an interest in sports among children and adolescents starting from the school level, he said.

The event was chaired by Niaz Mohammad Khan, the convener of the Shaheed Zia and Khaleda Zia Memorial Inter-School Gold Cup Football Tournament Committee, and moderated by Member Secretary Mashiul Alam Swapan. 

Abu Sufian, MP, and Nazimur Rahman, Member Secretary of the city BNP were present as special guests.