Says PM: Not only football, play cricket, too
Prime Minister attends final match and award ceremony of the Primary School Gold Cup Football Tournament in the city. Collected photo.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman urges students to play cricket alongside football, build a strong nation through sports and culture
The Prime Minister has called on students to excel not only in studies but also in sports and cultural activities to build a strong nation. Addressing young students, he said, "Just playing isn't enough; you must also advance in studies and creative work."
He made these remarks on Saturday afternoon at the Bangladesh Army Stadium during the final match and prize distribution ceremony of the Primary School Gold Cup Football Tournament.
The Prime Minister said this year some 2.2 million boys and girls participated in this football tournament. However, he emphasized that playing only football is not sufficient. "You must also play cricket, and you must learn to swim as well," he added.
He noted, "This year, there is a plan to organize this Gold Cup Football Tournament at the secondary level. Next year, the Prime Minister's Cup will be arranged."
The event began with a colorful display accompanied by patriotic songs. Students and spectators welcomed the Prime Minister. He then inaugurated the girls' final match by releasing balloons.
During the ceremony, the Prime Minister said, "Before the elections, we had promised that if we came to power, we would advance the country's sports. We are trying to work on that commitment."
Addressing the students, Tarique Rahman said, "Not just football or cricket—you will represent Bangladesh around the world by playing all kinds of sports. Whatever we have been able to achieve, you will accomplish several times more."
In the girls' final, Zorgacha United Government Primary School from Santhia Upazila in Pabna emerged champions, defeating Achargao Government Primary School from Nandail Upazila in Mymensingh by 4–2 goals.
In the boys' final, Darirampur Model Government Primary School from Trishal was defeated 1–0 by Dariyal Mia Government Primary School from Bakerganj Upazila in Barishal, who claimed the championship.
