Photo: BSS

DHAKA, May 4, 2026 (BSS) - The Inter-University Athletics and Basketball Competition, organized by Islamic University Bangladesh, was formally inaugurated today at the university's central athletics field.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque formally inaugurated the three-day competition as the chief guest.

Teams from twenty one universities across the country are participating in athletics (men's and women's categories) and basketball (men's category).

The inaugural ceremony turned into a festive occasion as students, teachers, officials, athletes, coaches, and sports organizers from different parts of the country gathered to witness the event.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Islamic University Bangladesh Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah. 

Speaking as the chief guest on the occasion, the State Minister highlighted the government's long-term sports development plan, saying priority is being given to expanding sports across the country. With this consistency sports allowances and sports cards have already been provided to three hundred athletes.

He also mentioned the recently launched 'Notun Kuri Sports' programme, aimed at identifying grassroots talent, and said it would be expanded to the union level in the next fiscal year.

Emphasizing the importance of school, college, and university-level competitions, Aminul said such events help spread sports culture at the grassroots level, adding that participation and skill development are more important than winning or losing.

The state minister further stressed the government's focus on sports science, sports medicine, and sports psychology to build a modern sports system and a disciplined, sports-friendly nation.