# Shaikh Faridul: Sports Crucial in Preventing Youth Involvement in Drugs and Crime

*State Minister Dr Shaikh Faridul Islam emphasizes the importance of sports in keeping young people healthy and away from drugs and crime.*

August 24, 2026 · Sports

In Bagerhat, a vibrant football match unfolded at Goalamath Football Ground in Raripara Union, Kachua upazila, marking the final of the Raripara Union World Cup Football Tournament-2026. Ward No. 9 clinched the championship with a 1-0 victory over Ward No. 2, in a game officiated by Soyeb Chowdhury, Gawsul Azam, and Selim Reza. The event was not just a celebration of athletic prowess but a platform for a significant message.

Attending as the chief guest, State Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change Dr Shaikh Faridul Islam seized the opportunity to underscore the critical role of sports in youth development. He asserted that sports are essential in maintaining both the physical and mental well-being of young individuals, steering them away from the perils of drugs and crime.

"To engage young people in sports, regular competitions should be organized," Dr Faridul emphasized. He highlighted that football and other sports instill discipline, foster friendships, and cultivate leadership qualities among the youth. "There is no alternative to sports for building a healthy and beautiful society," he added, reinforcing the notion that sports are more than just games—they are a vital component of societal health.

The final match and prize-giving ceremony saw a notable attendance, including Bagerhat District Council Administrator Barrister Sheikh Md Zakir Hossain, Bagerhat District BNP member Khan Monirul Islam, Kachua Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mohammad Ali Hasan, Kachua Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Al Mamun, Kachua Upazila BNP President Sardar Zahid, and General Secretary SM Touhidul Islam. Their presence underscored the collective commitment to promoting sports as a means of youth engagement and development.

After the exhilarating match, Dr Faridul handed over prizes to the victorious team, symbolizing not just their win on the field but the broader victory of youth empowerment through sports. His message resonated deeply, advocating for a sustained effort in organizing sports events to harness their transformative power on young lives.

## Sources

- BSS

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/sports/shaikh-faridul-sports-keep-youth-away-drugs-crime