Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today announced plans to launch a nationwide programme, ‘Notun Kuri Sports’, to identify and nurture new talents in the sports arena. This initiative is set to complement the existing children’s talent hunt programme, ‘Notun Kuri’, and aims to professionalize sports in Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to fulfilling the election manifesto promise of developing new players across various sports. He revealed plans to introduce interclass sports competitions at every school, district, upazila, and union level, fostering a competitive sports culture from the grassroots.
Tarique Rahman, who also serves as the ruling BNP chairman, made these remarks while distributing prizes at a friendly football match organized by the Bangladesh Football Federation. The event, held at the national stadium, was part of the celebrations for the Independence and National Day. The Prime Minister inaugurated the match and enjoyed the game alongside his daughter, Barrister Zaima Rahman.
Highlighting the government’s ambitions for international sports recognition, the Prime Minister stated that the aim is to develop skilled players capable of achieving better results in global competitions. He called for collective efforts from all stakeholders in the sports sector to work towards enhancing Bangladesh’s sports infrastructure and capabilities.
On the occasion of Independence Day, Tarique Rahman urged all parties involved in sports to unite beyond political differences to build an inclusive sports sector. He emphasized that sports have the potential to foster friendship and brotherhood while bringing honor to the nation.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo, State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku, and State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque, among others.