Dhaka: Former surfer and team leader of the Bangladesh Surfing Association, Md Saifullah Sifat, has highlighted the positive impact of the Festival of Youth in encouraging the country's youth to return to the playing field. He noted that the young generation, which has become increasingly addicted to mobile phones and computers, is gradually rediscovering the joys of sports through this initiative.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sifat emphasized the detrimental effects of digital dependence on the social and mental development of young people. In an era dominated by information technology, youths find it hard to envision life without digital devices. This dependency has led to a waning interest in sports, prompting the Ministry of Youth and Sports to organize the Festival of Youth 2025 across Bangladesh on December 30 last year, with the slogan 'Let's Change the Country, Change the World.'
Sifat, who is recognized by the International Surfing Association as the first coach and judge from Bangladesh, expressed his enthusiasm for the government's initiative. In an interview with BSS, he affirmed, "The Festival of Youth is a very good initiative. The current young generation has lost interest in sports as they have become device-oriented. The Festival of Youth is playing an effective role in bringing them back to the field of play."
The internationally trained lifeguard master trainer stressed the importance of regularizing the Festival of Youth to ensure sustained engagement in sports. He asserted that sports contribute to physical and mental fitness, and without them, young people risk becoming unfit. He views the festival as a positive step forward for the youth and advocates for its continuation for the betterment of future generations.
Sifat also called for increased government support to boost the popularity of surfing in Bangladesh. As the first Bangladeshi technical official at the Life Saving World Championships held in Italy in 2022 and Australia in 2024, he remarked on the challenges faced by surfers due to inadequate facilities and equipment. He pointed out the necessity of financial support for training camps and international competitions, which are crucial for preparing athletes for the global stage.
He elaborated, "Our events are not indoor-based, so players need food, transportation facilities, and financial support. We don't even have adequate equipment and are using our personal gear for surfing. If we have more equipment, the number of athletes will increase and interest in surfing will grow as well. Financial support is also needed to hold training camps regularly."
Highlighting future prospects, Sifat mentioned the upcoming participation of Bangladeshi surfers in the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, in 2026, and the World Championship Life Saving in Morocco next year.