“The prime task of the government is to make the children as worthy citizens. We’ve undertaken various programmes for that purpose,” she said while inaugurating the Sheikh Russel International Club Cup Tennis Tournament-2019 in Khulna from her official residence through video conference.

She said the government believes that sports should get the same importance to make the people of the country as worthy citizens.

“We’ve given special attention so that the practice of various sports could take place in the country and we are working on that,” she said.

Sheikh Hasina said mini stadiums are being constructed in every upazilas so that the youth could be involved in sports and cultural activities which will make them mentally strong and self-confident.

"Patriotism and responsibility for the country and nation will be instilled in them. For that we always give priority to sports," she said.

Sheikh Hasina said sports and games are very much important as these help keep the children and young generation away from anti-social activities like terrorism, militancy and drugs.

She said it is very essential to develop the children as worthy citizens of the country to materialise the dreams of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Khulna district administration, in collaboration with Cabinet Division and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, has arranged the tournament.

Tennis players from 19 countries including the USA, India, Italy, UK, Australia, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, Tajikistan, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Nepal and host Bangladesh are taking part in the tournament.