Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, Jan 20, 2026 (BSS) - More than a thousand students from eight districts of the Rajshahi division took part in the 54th Winter Sports Competition, showcasing their talents in cricket, athletics and several other disciplines.

The Sub-Regional School, Madrasa and Technical Education Sports Association organized the day-long event at the Liberation War Memorial Stadium in the city today.

Competitions were held in cricket, volleyball, basketball and hockey as team events, while singles and doubles matches were played in badminton and table tennis. Students also competed in various categories and distances in cycling and athletics.

The competition was formally inaugurated in the morning through a colourful ceremony featuring the lighting of the torch, hoisting of the national flag and the release of balloons and festoons.

Additional Divisional Commissioner Mohammad Habibur Rahman inaugurated the event as the chief guest. He said the competition created an important platform for students from different educational institutions to demonstrate their sporting skills.

Rahman noted that sports play a vital role alongside academic studies in ensuring students' physical fitness, mental well-being and leadership development. He said winter sports competitions help nurture discipline, patriotism and a spirit of healthy competition among students.

He added that team sports such as cricket, volleyball, basketball and hockey promote teamwork and strategic thinking, while cycling and athletics help develop endurance, speed and goal-oriented focus, which are essential for future life.

Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhter said both victory and defeat are integral parts of sports, and the real success lies in improving physical and mental strength through participation.

She encouraged students to practice sports regularly, saying it helps keep young people away from drugs and antisocial activities.

Deputy Director of Secondary and Higher Education Abdur Rashid said winter sports competitions make institutional sports activities more dynamic and foster harmony, discipline and mutual respect among students.

At the end of the competition, prizes were distributed among the winners. Teachers and guardians described the event as an important step toward creating a vibrant academic environment and building a sports-friendly society.