– Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today said the youth must play a leading role in advancing the country, stressing that putting national interests first is essential to safeguarding the interests of every citizen and building a Bangladesh for all.
“Bangladesh first and Bangladesh for all should be the goal of everyone. The youth must come forward to build such a Bangladesh,” he said.
The Prime Minister made the remarks while addressing the ‘Youth Volunteer Award 2026 and Grant Distribution’ programme organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports at the Shapla Hall of the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon here this evening, said his Deputy Press Secretary Md Suzauddoula (Sujon Mahmud).
Highlighting the contributions of young volunteers, Tarique Rahman said countless young people across the country, including students and professionals, were voluntarily working for public welfare alongside their studies and professional responsibilities and standing by people in times of need.
“Their initiatives and contributions are extremely important for the country,” he said.
Addressing the award recipients, the Prime Minister said the role of young people was crucial to taking a country forward, saying, “Most athletes who achieve success in competitions like the Olympics are young.”
“Similarly, during the country’s Liberation War and the 2024 mass uprising, young people had played a vital role on the ground, while senior citizens contributed their wisdom, intellect and advice,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the energy, courage, talent and initiative of young people are indispensable to major changes and national progress, adding, “The strengths must be harnessed for national development and public welfare.”
Referring to the pledges made before the election, Tarique Rahman said the commitments the government had made to the people were no longer just promises made by the government but had become expectations of the people as well.
He said the government is working to fulfil those pledges.
To support young entrepreneurs and talented youth, he said the government is working on plans to implement a startup fund to harness the potential of promising young people.
The proposed Taka 500 crore fund could be increased further, if necessary, to provide the required support, he added.
The Prime Minister said the country could progress faster by utilising young people’s talent, innovative ideas and enthusiasm, stressing that they should think not only about their own advancement but also about the welfare of every citizen.
At the programme, Tarique Rahman handed over the ‘Youth Volunteer Award 2026’ to 15 young volunteers and representatives of youth organisations in recognition of their outstanding contributions to voluntary activities in various fields.
Each award recipient received a cheque for Taka one lakh, a crest and a certificate.
Besides, 432 youth organisations across the country received grants of Taka two lakh each to strengthen and expand their activities.
Three award recipients shared their experiences of voluntary work at the programme, while State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque spoke about various government initiatives for young people.
Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Mirza Abbas was present at the event. Youth volunteers from all 64 districts joined the programme online.
Calling on young people to work with patriotism, humanity and a spirit of service, the Prime Minister reiterated that everyone should move forward with the goal of “Bangladesh first and Bangladesh for all”.
