State Minister for Road Transport and Bridges and Railways Habibur Rashid Habib distributed prizes at Nabiyabad Islamia Dakhil Madrasah’s annual prize distribution ceremony. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Aug 19, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Road Transport and Bridges and Railways Habibur Rashid Habib today stressed the need for increasing sports and cultural activities alongside academic studies to ensure students' intellectual, physical and mental development.

"It is not enough for students to merely achieve good results; they must also be enriched with moral values, discipline, patriotism and humanitarian qualities," he said.

The state minister made the remarks as the chief guest at the annual prize distribution ceremony for the 2026 merit list, sports and cultural competitions at Nabiyabad Islamia Dakhil Madrasah in the capital.

He said educational institutions should ensure adequate opportunities for students to participate in sports, cultural activities and creative pursuits alongside regular academic studies.

"Sports instill discipline, leadership qualities and a spirit of mutual cooperation in students, while cultural activities help develop their creativity and mindfulness," he said.

Habibur Rashid said education is one of the key tools for building the future of the nation, as today's students will lead the country tomorrow.

He called for nurturing students with moral and humanistic values alongside modern and contemporary education so that they can contribute effectively to the country's development.