State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj said martial arts will be included in compulsory physical education for students in grades four and five.
He said the government had made the decision as part of efforts to strengthen sports activities in primary education.
Hajjaj said the measure was intended to support children’s physical and mental development, confidence, discipline and self-control.
He described martial arts as more than a self-defence skill, saying it could help students develop patience and a constructive outlook.
The minister made the announcement at a black-belt presentation programme organised by the Bangladesh Kyokushin Karate Association at Rangs Bhaban in Bijoy Sarani, Dhaka.
He urged karate organisations to develop a practical plan for expanding training activities at primary schools across the country.
Hajjaj said the government would provide support for the initiative’s implementation.
He said he began Kyokushin karate training in 1991 and recalled the influence of training and demonstrations from that period.
Hajjaj distributed certificates and black belts to practitioners who had earned black-belt status at the programme.
No implementation timetable, curriculum details, instructor requirements, funding arrangement or rollout plan was specified.