Dhaka:President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir highlighted the significance of sports in protecting the younger generation from drug and mobile phone addiction, as well as frustration. His remarks were made during the inaugural function of the 18th Arafat Rahman Koko National Summer Athletics Competition 2026.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the President officially opened the athletics competition by releasing balloons and festoons at the National Stadium. He emphasized the necessity of expanding sports facilities and ensuring access to playgrounds to build a healthy nation and protect youth from destructive behaviors.
The President described athletics as the "mother of sports," vital for testing an athlete's speed, strength, agility, and discipline. He stressed that strengthening this foundation would improve the country's capabilities in other sports. Furthermore, he mentioned sports as a symbol of national pride and unity, expressing the importance of success on the international stage for Bangladesh's athletes.
President Mirza Fakhrul urged the provision of equal opportunities for female athletes and called for regular competitions at various educational and local levels to ensure no talent is overlooked due to financial constraints. He also called on businesses and government entities to offer long-term sponsorships to nurture world-class athletes.
Highlighting government initiatives, he mentioned the introduction of sports cards, allowances, talent-hunting programs, and modern sports villages. He also urged the recovery of illegally occupied playgrounds and the identification of new locations for sports fields.
The President expressed hope for future talented athletes emerging from the competition and dedicated the event to the memory of sports organizer Arafat Rahman Koko. The event featured a march-past of 57 teams, theme song performances, and torch-lighting by veteran athletes. After the inauguration, the President observed sprint competitions and awarded medals to winners.
Upon his arrival, President Alamgir was welcomed by State Minister Md. Aminul Haque and other dignitaries, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the event.