Dhaka: State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque today announced that the current government is embarking on a long-term initiative from "zero" with the ambition of securing an Olympic medal for Bangladesh. He made these comments during a thanksgiving event celebrating the successful broadcast of the FIFA World Cup 2026, held at the Press Information Department (PID) conference room.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, during the event, State Minister Aminul Haque presented a special letter of appreciation and floral greetings to Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon and State Minister Yasser Khan Choudhury. The accolades were in recognition of their role in ensuring that the FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcast was completed without spending any government revenue and through a corruption-free process.
In outlining the country's future in international sports, Aminul Haque shared that just two days prior, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inquired about the timeline for winning an Olympic medal. He emphasized that the government is starting its efforts from an absolute "zero," focusing on a long-term target spanning the next five years or more. The aim is to see Bangladesh make its mark at the world's most prestigious sporting event.
Aminul highlighted the launch of the 'Notun Kuri Sports' program, which will act as the primary platform for nurturing talented athletes from the grassroots level. Selected athletes aged between 10 and 14 will be accommodated at BKSP at the government's expense, covering all costs related to their education and sports training. Unlike temporary preparations for specific tournaments, these athletes will receive year-round training in eight selected sports disciplines.
Addressing the living standards and professionalism of athletes, Aminul emphasized the government's commitment to their social and financial security. Around 300 athletes are currently benefiting from a regular sports allowance program, with plans to include an additional 200 athletes, coaches, trainers, and referees in the coming month. This initiative aims to establish sports as a secure and respectable career path for young people and their guardians.
Aminul also called for efforts to steer the younger generation away from mobile device and drug addiction. The government has launched a project to establish a playground across at least eight bighas of land in each of the country's 4,599 unions, enhancing opportunities for sports. Simultaneously, there are intensified efforts to recover and renovate encroached playgrounds in various regions.
He expressed optimism that Bangladesh would participate in the upcoming Asian Games in September, and with appropriate development, the nation could eventually secure a place in world football. The program was attended by Information and Broadcasting Ministry Secretary (routine responsibility) Md Shah Alam and Principal Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed, among others.