Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan has urged students to engage in debating, cultural and other creative activities alongside their academic studies.

He said the integrated development of academic and co-curricular activities is essential for producing capable citizens and future leaders.

The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the ‘DUDS-ActionAid National Debate Festival 2026’, organised by the Dhaka University Debating Society (DUDS) in collaboration with ActionAid at the TSC Auditorium of Dhaka University on Saturday.

He formally inaugurated the debate competition, in which 24 teams from different universities across the country are participating.

The LGRD Minister said students are the future leaders of the country and will take responsibility in various sectors over the next 10, 15 or 20 years.

“Therefore, they have to start preparing themselves for the future from now. Even if they play a role in politics, social affairs or the economy, they must not neglect their studies in any way,” he said.

He said debating plays an important role in developing students’ logical thinking, ability to express opinions and leadership skills.

“However, merely participating in debate competitions is not enough. Students need to engage in various creative and co-curricular activities to develop their overall knowledge and skills,” he said.

Recalling his student life, Dr Moyeen Khan said he participated in debate competitions as a student of Fazlul Huq Hall at Dhaka University nearly 60 years ago.

He also recalled his experience of representing the hall and becoming champion for three consecutive years.

The minister said one of the special strengths of the student community is its ability to speak out against injustice and irregularities.

“Throughout the history of Bangladesh, students have played an important role in bringing about change at different times,” he said, urging the younger generation to use this strength and sense of responsibility positively.

Dr Moyeen Khan said quality education and universities are among the key foundations of a country’s progress.

“A country can move forward in the long run only on the strength of knowledge, research and education,” he said.

He stressed that teachers and students must properly fulfil their respective responsibilities to preserve the glorious tradition of Dhaka University.

Thanking DUDS, the minister said the organisation should not limit itself to organising debate competitions but should be developed as an effective platform for advancing academic and co-curricular activities at the university.

“Through this, a new generation enriched with knowledge, skills, values and leadership can be developed, who will contribute to taking Bangladesh to a more dignified position globally in the future,” he said.