Rajshahi, July 14 (V7N)- The State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, and General Secretary of the Bangladesh Awami League, Rajshahi District Branch, Abdul Wadud (Dara) MP, expressed that Bangladesh Scouts will play a pivotal role in the creation of a Smart Bangladesh, guiding the nation like a lighthouse.
 
He articulated this viewpoint as the chief guest at the "Distribution of Drum Sets to Cub Scout Units 2024" event, organized by Puthia Upazila Scouts, on Saturday morning (July 13) at the Puthia Upazila Parishad premises.
 
Addressing the Cub Scouts, the State Minister emphasized that scouting is essential for achieving the vision of a Smart Bangladesh by 2041, as envisioned by Honorable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He highlighted that Bangladesh Scouts is a unique organization dedicated to transforming children and adolescents into smart, responsible citizens of their families, society, country, and the world by enhancing their physical, mental, moral, intellectual, and social attributes from a young age.
 
To develop into smart citizens, Cub Scouts should acquire practical skills, work in small groups, receive recognition through badges, engage in outdoor activities, salute with three fingers, shake hands with the right hand, wear scout uniforms, scarves, and badges, and consistently follow scout laws and pledges to grow into future leaders.
 
In his remarks following the distribution of drum sets to Cub Scout units, he recalled that in 1972, the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, initiated the scouting movement in Bangladesh to provide children and adolescents with joyful learning experiences and help them become self-reliant, good citizens.
 
Bangladesh Scouts has played a crucial role in shaping scouts into self-respecting, honest, character-driven, proactive, service-oriented, and overall good citizens. Given the socio-economic conditions and moral challenges in Bangladesh, the scouting movement is vital and indispensable for nation-building.
 
Abdul Wadud also acknowledged the commendable service programs of scouts, including tree planting, vaccination, sanitation and environmental conservation, fuel-efficient stoves, and assistance during floods and natural disasters, which contribute significantly to the development of society and the country. He stressed that Cub Scouts (ages 6 to 10+) should be educated about the country's true history alongside the latest technological advancements.
 
He underscored the importance of balancing study, play, and work, urging Cub Scouts to become entrepreneurs through unity and continuous practice. This way, they will develop the leadership qualities needed to work for the nation's welfare.
 
The event was chaired by Puthia Upazila Executive Officer A.K.M. Noor Hossain Nirjhor. Additional speakers included Abdus Samad and Upazila Awami League President Nazrul Islam. The event was also attended by officials from the upazila administration, chairpersons of various unions in Puthia Upazila, and other distinguished individuals from the upazila.
 
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