Mushfiqur Rahim Inspires Students at Milestone Sports Festival

In a poignant effort to foster emotional resilience and collective healing, Milestone School and College hosted the “Milestone Sports Festival 2026” at its Diabari campus. The event was graced by the presence of veteran national cricketer Mushfiqur Rahim, who spent the day engaging with students to help them reclaim their sense of joy and mental well-being.

Healing Through Sporting Excellence

The festival was specifically designed to restore the psychological strength of the student body following the tragic events of 21 July 2025. Organisers emphasised that the primary objective was to replace painful memories with new, joyful experiences through the power of sport and communal participation.

The day commenced with a moving rendition of the national anthem, followed by the ceremonial release of pigeons—a universal symbol of peace and hope. Ichiguchi Tomohide, the Chief Representative of JICA Bangladesh, addressed the gathering, noting that participatory initiatives are vital for rebuilding the mental fortitude of children after a crisis.

Key Dignitaries and Supporters

Lessons from Defeat and Discipline

The highlight of the festival was a friendly cricket match where Mushfiqur Rahim took to the field alongside the students. Moving beyond the pressures of professional competition, the match focused on the spirit of participation and pure enthusiasm. This was followed by a “mini ball-throw” game, designed to encourage teamwork and inclusivity.

Speaking to the students, Mushfiqur Rahim offered profound insights into his career. “The greatest lessons of my life did not come from my victories, but from the matches I lost,” he remarked, praising the students’ discipline and morale. He spent significant time answering their questions with patience and sincerity, reinforcing the values of perseverance and unity.

Investing in Long-Term Development

The festival also saw the official inauguration of a Board Game Club, supported by Kenji Kimura of MUFG Bank. Kimura highlighted that strategic board games are excellent tools for developing problem-solving skills and collaborative thinking. Dr Niloy Ranjan Biswas of Ekmattra Society added that such creative and athletic outlets are the most effective mediums for ensuring the positive mental health of young learners.

The event was organised through a partnership between JICA Bangladesh and Milestone School and College, with Ekmattra Entrepreneurs Ltd. serving as the event partner and MUFG Bank Ltd. Bangladesh providing essential support.