In a bid to foster camaraderie and address critical societal issues, Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) has taken the initiative to organize an inter-university futsal competition involving 64 teams from both public and private universities.
The announcement was made by BCL Central Committee President Saddam Hossain during a press conference held in front of Dhaka University's iconic Madhur Canteen on Tuesday afternoon.
The competition, slated to commence on March 4, at 8 am, will run until March 10, with matches taking place at the Shaheed Suhrawardy Indoor Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka.
Each participating team will consist of five players with two additional players allowed. Notably, the tournament carries a thematic focus on pressing social issues including drugs, child marriage, dowry, and the promotion of a 'smart Bangladesh.' President Saddam Hossain emphasized in a written statement that beyond the realm of sports, the objective of the competition is to engage students in meaningful discourse surrounding societal challenges while fostering teamwork, fair competition, and intellectual growth. He reiterated BCL's commitment to realizing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's vision of a 'Smart Bangladesh' by nurturing a skilled and socially conscious young generation.
Furthermore, the tournament aims to recognize and celebrate the efforts of organizations dedicated to combating issues such as drug abuse, child marriage, and dowry. Awards will be conferred upon these organizations as a token of appreciation for their contributions towards building a better society.
Speaking on the occasion, Chhatra League Central Committee General Secretary Sheikh Wali Asif Inan, Sports Affairs Secretary Mehdi Hasan Shanto, and other key figures emphasized the importance of such initiatives in shaping the youth into responsible citizens and agents of positive change.
The event underscores BCL's broader commitment to promoting social cohesion, awareness, and progressive ideals among university students. By utilizing the platform of sports, BCL endeavors to instill values of empathy, responsibility, and activism among the youth, thereby contributing to the collective endeavor of nation-building.
The inter-university futsal tournament not only promises thrilling sporting action but also serves as a platform for meaningful engagement on pressing social issues. With the participation of diverse teams from across the country, the event is poised to spark meaningful conversations and inspire tangible actions towards a more inclusive and progressive Bangladesh.
As preparations for the tournament are underway, anticipation is high for an event that blends the excitement of sports with a commitment to social change, making strides towards a brighter future for Bangladesh and its youth.