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State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj
The government has decided to include martial arts in the compulsory sports curriculum for fourth and fifth-grade students as part of efforts to strengthen physical education in primary schools, State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj has said.
Speaking as the chief guest at a black belt award ceremony organised by the Bangladesh Kyokushin Karate Association at the Rangs Bhaban in Dhaka, he said the initiative is aimed at promoting children's physical and mental development while fostering discipline, self-confidence and self-control.
Hajjaj said martial arts should not be viewed solely as a means of self-defence. According to him, it also helps students develop patience, discipline, confidence and a positive mindset. He added that children who gain confidence in themselves are more likely to avoid violence and conflict and contribute positively to society.
He stressed that expanding sports and martial arts training is essential for raising a healthy, confident and patriotic younger generation. The state minister also urged karate organisations to prepare practical plans for extending training programmes to primary schools across the country, assuring them of the government's full support in implementing the initiative.
Recalling his own experience, Hajjaj said he began practising Kyokushin Karate in 1991. He noted that the rigorous training, friendships and demonstration events from that period continue to inspire him, adding that the performances by today's karate practitioners brought back memories from more than three decades ago.
He also said martial arts can play a significant role in developing leadership qualities, self-defence skills and humanitarian values among students, helping prepare a capable and responsible future generation.
At the end of the programme, the state minister presented certificates and black belts to successful karate practitioners and congratulated them on their achievements while wishing them continued success.
