Panchagarh: State Minister for Water Resources Forhad Hossain Azad today emphasized the importance of equipping children with swimming skills to prevent accidental deaths in water and foster a safe generation. He highlighted that swimming is not merely a recreational or fitness activity but a crucial life-saving capability.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Forhad made these remarks during the inaugural session of a fish fry release and children's swimming training programme held at a pond within the Boda Upazila Parishad premises. The event was organized by the Boda Upazila administration.
Forhad stressed that Bangladesh, with its numerous water bodies like rivers, canals, beels, and ponds, has these resources intricately connected to people's lives and livelihoods. He noted that ensuring the proper utilization of these water bodies could significantly boost fish production, fulfill nutritional needs, and create employment opportunities.
The state minister pointed out that methodically releasing fish fry and developing fisheries resources could further elevate the country's fish production. He called for a collective responsibility to protect the environment and biodiversity of natural water bodies and underscored the importance of local participation in keeping these water bodies pollution-free.
Addressing the swimming training for children, Forhad underscored the critical role of awareness and practical skills in preventing child drowning incidents. He noted that swimming skills significantly enhance a child's chances of self-defense if they unexpectedly fall into water.
Forhad urged local administrations, families, and educational institutions to prioritize teaching children to swim. He also highlighted the role of sports in the physical and mental growth of children, noting that swimming serves as exercise, entertainment, and a self-defense skill. He advocated for regular and safe swimming training sessions for children.
At the event, Forhad released various fish species' fry into the pond and launched a children's swimming training programme. The event saw the presence of upazila administration officials, local public representatives, department officials, trainers, children, guardians, and community members.