Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has emphasized the importance of promoting domestic sports alongside other games, highlighting its role in nurturing the talents of children.

Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony of the Bangabandhu Gold Cup Primary School Football Tournament-2023 and Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Gold Cup Primary School Football Tournament-2023 at the Army Stadium in the capital, Sheikh Hasina underscored the significance of sports in fostering physical and mental well-being, discipline, obedience, and patriotism among individuals.

She reiterated her commitment to encouraging children's participation in sports, aiming for their holistic development as responsible citizens. Sheikh Hasina emphasized the transformative power of sports, not only in shaping individual character but also in advancing the nation's standing on the global stage.

Acknowledging the achievements of Bangladeshi athletes, especially the success of the women's football team in the SAFF Women Championship 2022, Sheikh Hasina highlighted the role of grassroots-level tournaments in nurturing talent. She commended the efforts to construct mini stadiums in every upazila to facilitate year-round sports activities and ensure inclusivity by providing opportunities for children with disabilities.

During the ceremony, Sheikh Hasina witnessed the final match between Bancharampur Model Government Primary School, Brahmanbaria, and Patgram Tepurgari BK Government Primary School, Lalmonirhat. She also presented prizes and medals to the winning and runner-up teams of both tournaments, emphasizing the government's commitment to promoting sports at the grassroots level.

State Minister of Primary and Mass Education Rumana Ali, MP, and Primary and Mass Education Secretary Farid Ahmed also echoed the prime minister's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of sports in fostering a healthy and vibrant society.

The tournaments, organized by the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, witnessed participation from 65,354 primary schools nationwide, with a total of 2,222,026 students, both male and female, showcasing their sporting talents. Individual awards were also presented to outstanding performers, recognizing their contributions to their respective teams' success.