Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday extended a warm reception to four Bangladeshi Hafizs who triumphed at the 46th King Abdulaziz International Quran Competition held in Saudi Arabia. He emphasized the government's commitment to recognizing the achievements of citizens who excel through merit and ability.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister addressed the prize-winning Hafizs at a reception held in the Cabinet Division conference room at the Bangladesh Secretariat. He commended them for their remarkable accomplishment, stating that their success is a collective achievement for all Muslims in Bangladesh. Tarique Rahman reiterated the government's policy to honor talented citizens, asserting that recognizing the achievements of the nation's youth is pivotal to shaping the country's future.
The Prime Minister highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to encourage talented individuals since assuming office. He stated that inviting the prize-winning Hafizs to the reception was part of these efforts. During the event, the teachers of the Hafizs shared some challenges they face, prompting Tarique Rahman to assure them that he would discuss potential solutions with the relevant minister.
Tarique Rahman also pledged continued government support for participation in future international competitions, encouraging young Bangladeshis to bring honor to themselves and their country. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts to establish peace and progress in the nation.
During the program, the Prime Minister gifted books to the winners and listened to their recitations of verses from the surahs that earned them accolades in the competition. Among competitors from 133 countries, Hafiz Mohammad Zakaria won first place in the 15-para Hifz, Tajweed, and beautiful recitation category. Hafiz Sheikh Mohammad Mahmudul Hasan Ashrafi secured third place in the 30-para Hifz, Tajweed, and beautiful recitation category. Hafiza Rabeta Binte Ramzan and Hafiza Musfira Binte Mahmud also achieved third place in their respective categories.
The event was attended by Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain Kaikobad, State Minister Shamim Kaiser, Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani, and Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister ABM Abdus Sattar, among others. Teachers of the prize-winning Hafizs, including Qayum Molla, Muinuddeen Majumder, Abu Bakar, Sajeda Khatun, and Maulana Rafiqul Islam, were also present.