It was a dense foggy weather and bone-chilling cold. The minimum temperature went down by several degrees due to cold wave.
Although, they were shivering in the cold wearing warm clothes, a sense of excitement were beaming and their faces were seen ignited.
Some 4,596 students of class VI to X from 73 schools in Chittagong gathered at the playground of Chittagong Municipality High School to receive prizes of a year-long book reading competition.
With the gathering of students and their parents, the school premises turned into a festive look yesterday.
The Bishwo Shahitto Kendro (BSK) ogranised the Prize Giving Ceremony 2015 under its programme for enlightening the country’s youths through reading books.
Winners were given prizes under four categories for their excellence in reading books, said BSK Chittagong’s Organiser Alex Alim.
Mishu Shil, a class X student of Uttar Kattoli City Corporation Girls School, was among the students who received prize for reading book. She reached the programme venue before the sunrise.
“It was the most memorable day in my life to see Abdullah Abu Sayeed sir and receiving award from him,” she said.
“I want to read more books. I am really glad getting the prize for reading books,” said Ummul Wara, a class VII student of Cantonment Public School and College.
Speaking on the occasion, BSK President Prof Abdullah Abu Sayeed said the BSK had started its journey with only 15 members around 36 years ago.
“Now we have 15,00,000 members across the country, who are enlightening themselves by reading books,” he said.
Bangladesh has a large population. But the number of civilized people is very low, he added.
“Be a good person, Bangladesh will go ahead if you are good,” Abu Sayeed urged the students.
Prominent actor and dramatist Mamunur Rashid said the teachers should not teach the students only for obtaining pass marks.
“Please teach them for real knowledge so that they can be a good person,” he said.
“Draw your dream by reading books and your dreams will be fulfilled when you link up your idea, knowledge and dream,” he added.
