Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher -File photo

DHAKA, Aug 20, 2026 (BSS) - Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher has said students must lead in sports, science, technology, robotics, scouting and other co-curricular activities alongside their studies.

“By being involved in co-curricular activities and sports students can improve their physical health, build social skills and reduce stress,” he said. 

The minister made the remarks while speaking as chief guest at a voluntary blood donation and blood group identification programme at Dhaka Residential Model College today.

Zakaria Taher, a former student of Dhaka Residential Model College, said,  “As I stand on the school premises after nearly 10 years, many old memories came back in mind.”

"Countless memories of our childhood and adolescence are associated with every corner of this school. Our greatest expectation is that the old tradition, glory and excellence of Model School will return," he said.

He said the school was once known as one of the country's finest educational institutions.

The minister said that despite being located in the city, the school had a unique environment and distinctive characteristics that were truly exceptional.

"One of our students has done outstanding work in robotics and earned a reputation at home and abroad," he said.

Old Remain Welfare Association President Mashiur Rahman chaired the programme.

Housing and Public Works State Minister Ahammad Sohel Monzoor and Member of Parliament Md Selimuzzaman Selim attended the programme as special guests.

College Principal Brigadier General Mohammad Jaber Hossain attended the blood donation programme, organised at the college's basketball ground.

Members of the Old Remain Welfare Association and former teachers and students of the college were present at the blood donation programme.