CCC Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain spoke the opening ceremony of the Robi-Dristi Chattogram Debate Competition as the chief guest at the Theatre Institute in Chattogram.Photo : BSS

CHATTOGRAM, Oct 30, 2025 (BSS) – Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain said that youth, equipped with rational thinking, will shape the future of Bangladesh.

He also praised debaters from Chattogram for their leadership and revolutionary spirit, noting that they will continue to excel and lead the way.

Dr. Shahadat made these remarks while addressing the opening ceremony of the Robi-Dristi Chattogram Debate Competition as the chief guest at the Theatre Institute in the city.

The competition, organized with the promise of a hopeful tomorrow, features over a hundred debaters from 32 schools in Chattogram and 16 colleges across the country. The event began with the national anthem, a documentary on Chattogram’s history and heritage, and a dance performance.

Mayor Dr. Shahadat described Chattogram as a city blessed with natural beauty, including rivers, the sea, and hills. He lauded the city’s free-spirited people and their commitment to creating a clean, green, healthy, and safe city.

Additionally, Mayor Dr. Shahadat announced the upcoming Mayor's Gold Cup Debate Competition in January, which will involve schools and colleges nationwide.

As a special guest, media personality Dr. Abdun Noor Tushar said that Bangladeshis excel in debates even if they may not be the best in sports like cricket or football. He praised Dristi Chattogram for nurturing logical young minds for 32 years and encouraged the participants to become future leaders and champions.

Sharif Shah Jamal Raj, Head of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Robi Axiata Limited, highlighted the importance of critical thinking and logical arguments in the Robi-Dristi Debate Competition. He emphasized that Robi supports the development of civic leadership through thoughtful discussions and constructive reasoning, believing that rational thinking leads to positive social change.

Dristi founder Masud Bokul stressed the importance of debating as a means of self-enrichment. He said that through logical reasoning and intellectual engagement, individuals can progress in all aspects of life, developing intellect and wisdom.

Dristi Chattogram President Saif Chowdhury presided over the function, while Vice President Saber Shah attended the event. Executive Magistrate of Chattogram District Administration Tamjidur Rahman and educationist Bridget Dias also delivered speeches at the ceremony.