Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday urged young people to take the lead in building a Bangladesh for all, saying national interests must come first to ensure the welfare of every citizen.

“Your goal should be Bangladesh first and Bangladesh for all. Young people must come forward to build such a Bangladesh,” he said.

The Prime Minister was speaking at the Youth Volunteer Award 2026 and Grant Distribution ceremony organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports at the Shapla Hall of the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon.

Highlighting the contributions of young people across the country, he said many youths are voluntarily helping others and standing beside people in times of need alongside their studies and professional responsibilities.

Tarique Rahman described their initiatives as important for the country and urged them to use their energy, courage, talent and initiative for national development and public welfare.

Addressing the award recipients, he said young people play a crucial role in advancing a country, noting that most athletes who succeed in competitions such as the Olympics are young.

The Prime Minister also referred to the War of Liberation and the 2024 mass uprising, saying while senior people might have contributed their wisdom, ideas and advice, young people played a significant role on the ground.

He said the government is working to implement the pledges made before the election, noting that those commitments are now not only the government's but also the people's.

On support for young entrepreneurs and talented youths, Tarique Rahman said the government is working on plans to launch a startup fund worth Tk 500 crore. “The size of the fund will be increased if necessary to help young people realise their potential.”

He said the country can progress faster by harnessing young people's talent, innovative thinking and enthusiasm.

The Prime Minister urged them to look beyond their personal development and consider the welfare of all citizens.

At the ceremony, Tarique Rahman presented the Youth Volunteer Award 2026 to 15 young volunteers and representatives of youth organisations in recognition of their outstanding contributions to voluntary activities in different fields. Each recipient received a Tk 1 lakh cheque, a crest and a certificate.

The government also provided grants of Tk 2 lakh each to 432 youth organisations to strengthen their activities.

Three award recipients shared their experiences of voluntary work, while State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque spoke about various government plans for young people.

Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Mirza Abbas was present at the event. Youth volunteers from all 64 districts joined the programme online.