Khulna, Broadcasting News Corporation: Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf, Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare, said that in addition to cultural entertainment, sports play a crucial role in improving physical and mental health. Popularizing sports among the youth can help free society from epidemics like drug abuse.

He said this in his speech as the chief guest at the inauguration of the two-day divisional annual sports and cultural competition for residents of residential institutions under the Department of Social Services in the Khulna division at Khulna District Stadium on Saturday (January 10, 2026).

The Secretary of Social Welfare stated that out of the government’s 96 social security programs, 29 are directly implemented by the Department of Social Services, benefiting approximately 12.3 million people directly and indirectly. Every year, children eagerly anticipate participating in the annual sports competitions organized by the Department of Social Services.
He further said that the facilities we provide for these children are inadequate. Efforts to expand these facilities will continue. He said, as you know, we arrange education for these children. Mere education might help them survive, but it will not fulfill their mental nourishment. Through today’s event, we have been able to take our children outside the four walls to some extent. He mentioned sports and cultural activities as important means for developing discipline, self-confidence, and human values in children.

The event was presided over by Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md. Mokhtar Ahmed. Special guests included Director General of the Department of Social Services Md. Kamal Uddin Biswas, Additional Divisional Commissioner (Overall) of Khulna Abu Sayeed Md. Manzur Alam, and Deputy Director of the Local Government Department of District Administration Md. Ariful Islam. The welcome speech was delivered by Anindita Roy, Director of the Khulna Divisional Social Services Office.

Children from 15 child families in 10 districts of the Khulna division participated in the two-day annual sports and cultural competition. Children from the child families participated in the march past during the event.