by Hafizur Rahman
The Rohingya Football League 2025 26 was inaugurated on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, at the football field in Camp 4 of Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar. The tournament was launched by the Office of the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner with support from national and international partner organizations.
The opening ceremony began at around 10:30 am and was attended by officials, humanitarian workers, and members of the Rohingya community. Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, Additional Secretary and Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner, attended the event as the chief guest.
Promoting youth engagement through sports
Speaking at the ceremony, officials said the Rohingya Football League aims to promote sportsmanship, unity, discipline, and positive engagement among Rohingya youth living in the camps. They said the initiative seeks to provide young people with a constructive outlet through sports while encouraging teamwork, leadership, and mutual respect.
Players from different camps are expected to take part in the league, with matches scheduled to continue over the coming weeks. Organizers encouraged community members to attend the games and support the participating teams.
Hope for social harmony
Organizers expressed hope that the tournament would help strengthen social harmony within the camps and offer meaningful recreational opportunities for Rohingya youth, many of whom face prolonged displacement and limited access to structured activities.
The Rohingya Football League is seen as an effort to create a positive environment for young people while fostering a sense of community and shared purpose through sport.
