Dhaka: The government has announced a strategic plan to establish sports as a legitimate professional career for citizens, as revealed by State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque. With a focus on utilizing available open spaces for the development of playgrounds, this initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate sports into the professional landscape of the country.

According to United News of Bangladesh, State Minister Aminul Haque shared the government’s plans during a “Shadow Parliament” debate program held in the capital. The event, marking International Youth Day 2026, highlighted the government’s intent to make sports compulsory from Grade IV in the upcoming academic year. This move is aimed at fostering a culture where sports are seen as a viable career path, alongside traditional professions.

The debate, organized by Debate for Democracy in collaboration with CARE Bangladesh and SOS Children’s Villages Bangladesh, focused on the theme ‘Private sector engagement is more important than the government in Building Skilled Manpower.’ The event was presided over by Debate for Democracy Chairman Hassan Ahamed Chowdhury Kiron, with the state minister serving as the chief guest.

Md. Aminul Haque emphasized the importance of equipping young people with skills that prevent unemployment post-education. He suggested that technical education could be a pathway for youths to become self-reliant. Furthermore, he highlighted the role of sports in steering the youth away from drug addiction.

Hassan Ahamed pointed out that the government is prioritizing job-oriented education and is implementing initiatives to develop a workforce that meets both local and global demands. The debate concluded with Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University emerging victorious over Eastern University, showcasing the competitive spirit and critical thinking skills fostered through such engagements.