BFUJ Secretary General Kader Gani Chowdhury speaks at the inaugural ceremony of the annual sports competition organised by the Bangladesh Photojournalists Association (BPJA) at its auditorium on Tuesday. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Jan 27, 2026 (BSS) – Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Secretary General Kader Gani Chowdhury today said sports and physical activities are indispensable for the physical, mental and intellectual development of the children

“Sports represent the health, joy and pride of a nation. Along with education, children need a healthy and enjoyable life, and sports play a vital role in ensuring that,” he said.

He came up with the remarks at the inaugural ceremony of the annual sports competition organised by the Bangladesh Photojournalists Association (BPJA) at its auditorium here this afternoon as the chief guest.

"Sports have greater importance  in educational institutions," Kader Gani added. 

He noted that sports are not merely a source of entertainment but also help build physical strength, mental resilience and immunity against diseases. 
However, he expressed concern that many schools lack playgrounds, forcing students to move away from sports.

Highlighting the importance of sports for childhood development, he said children learn about their surroundings, express emotions and develop communication skills through sports and games. 

He added that excessive academic pressure and dependence on coaching centres have significantly reduced children’s opportunities for outdoor play.

He also expressed concern over the rapid decline of playgrounds, especially in urban areas, due to unplanned urbanisation. 
Warning against growing mobile phone  addiction among students, he urged the government to strengthen physical education at secondary and higher secondary levels.

The programme was presided over by BPJA President AKM Mohsin, while its General Secretary Babul Talukder conducted the event. 
Several journalists and association leaders were present on the occasion.