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DHAKA, April 05, 2025 (BSS) – Bangladeshi women in sports have long been a source of pride and inspiration. From Jobera Rahman Linu’s record-setting feat in table tennis in 2002 to the powerful performances of cricket stars like Sabina, Jyoti, and Jahanara, these athletes have left an indelible mark. In 2022, the Bangladesh women’s football team added a new milestone, returning home as SAFF champions and reigniting a wave of national pride.
 
These achievements by women serve as a powerful example of empowerment, not just in sports but across all sectors of the society. Their remarkable successes demonstrate the incredible potential of women in the sporting world when provided with equal opportunities and resources. 
 
Despite societal progress, women's access to various fields, including sports, remains limited. A recent study by a non-governmental organization explored this issue, focusing on women's participation in sports in Bangladesh.
 
Titled "Reasons Why Women Face Obstacles in Sports in Bangladesh: A Social Survey," the study revealed that many girls participate in sports at the national level in hopes of securing a job and financially supporting their families.
 
Of the total, 83 percent of the participants came with middle or lower-income backgrounds. However, only 34 percent of them were able to secure employment through their sports careers, while the rest faced discouragement due to the lack of job opportunities or financial security.
 
The study also highlighted that the primary barrier to women's participation in sports is family. Many parents fear societal judgment, criticism of their daughters' attire, gossip from neighbours, and prevailing social prejudices, leading them to discourage their daughters from pursuing sports. 
 
Beyond issues like child marriage, there are also post-marriage challenges and constraints. In addition, conservative family views, the difficulties of maternity leave, and the challenge of competing in tournaments while raising young children —these all serve as significant obstacles for female athletes.
 
Research indicates that several factors prevent women from pursuing sports as a career, including dependence on others for basic needs, gender discrimination, family opposition, the absence of specialized women’s clubs, a lack of regular tournaments, and limited access to practice spaces. 
 
Many also feel that female athletes are not given the respect or recognition they deserve for their sacrifices in the sporting world. 
 
Arifa Jahan Bithi, a cricketer from Rangpur, grew up in such an environment. She recently shared her story with this reporter, saying, "We women want to play just like men, and we've shown that we can make our mark if chance is given. What we need now is the opportunity."
 
Experts believe that sports are one of the most powerful and effective tools for women's empowerment in today’s world. It contributes significantly to improving women's physical and mental well-being, while also boosting their confidence and fostering leadership skills. 
 
Jahanara Alam, fast bowler and former captain of the Bangladesh women's cricket team, emphasized the need for greater sensitivity and cooperation regarding the current challenges women face in sports. 
 
She also urged for identifying these obstacles and taking the necessary steps to address them. "Sports play a crucial role in developing leadership qualities in women, enhancing their strategic thinking and decision-making abilities. Through leadership roles in sports, women can cultivate essential skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and team management. Additionally, success in sports not only strengthens a woman’s standing in society but also serves as an inspiration to others.”
 
Nigar Sultana Jyoti, captain of Bangladesh National Women’s Cricket Team, said, “Sports have made me both physically and mentally strong, and have enabled me to become financially independent.” 
 
She hoped, “Every young woman in our country will believe in herself, overcome all challenges, and pursue her dreams with determination."
 
Munaiza Ahmed, captain of the girls' basketball team at DPS STS School Dhaka, also echoed the same views. Reflecting on her own experience, she said that being involved in basketball has not only improved their physical well-being but has also earned them social recognition.
 
Women's participation in sports brings significant economic benefits to the country as well. Firstly, it creates numerous employment opportunities, including roles for coaches, trainers, physiotherapists, and other support staff. 
 
Moreover, the success of women athletes in international competitions brings national pride. 
 
Through media exposure and advertising, their achievements can drive major business opportunities. Sponsorships, brand endorsements, and various campaigns also create pathways for increased income. 
 
A female athlete, whether as a daughter, sister, or mother, serves as an active role model and source of inspiration within her family. This influence then extends to her community and, eventually, to the entire nation, inspiring others through the power of sports.
 
Tania Haque, a professor in the Department of Women and Gender Studies at Dhaka University, emphasized that women's involvement in sports is crucial for fostering social development and equality, which in turn is vital for a stable and prosperous economy. 
 
She pointed out that empowering women and encouraging their participation in economic activities also contributes to boosting national productivity. 
 
Tania Haque stressed the importance of taking proactive measures at various levels to promote women's participation in sports.
 
Mentioning that it is crucial to eliminate the gender divide in sports, sports journalist Mehreena Kamal Moon said women should be educated about the significance and benefits of sports, while dismantling social prejudices also. 
 
She highlighted that showcasing the achievements of successful female athletes and presenting them as role models can play a key role in this initiative. 
 
The media, especially social media, will be vital in driving this campaign forward, she added.
 
Educational institutions, particularly schools and colleges, play a crucial role in encouraging women to participate in sports. 
 
To foster more opportunities for women in sports, it’s essential that these institutions provide proper training and facilities. This includes ensuring access to adequate fields, equipment, and organized training programmes, as well as hosting regular competitions.
 
Md. Abdus Sattar, a former headmaster of a secondary school in Habiganj, referring to his experience, said that many schools lack even the basic facilities for sports. Despite this, he observed a strong interest in sports among girls. He also emphasized the need to cultivate a positive attitude toward sports in educational institutions.
 
Sattar also pointed out that many schools across the country are increasingly prioritizing sports education. 
 
This sports enthusiast said now schoolgirls are being encouraged to participate in sports through various tournaments. 
 
However, he stressed that it is not enough to just have skilled coaches or sports teachers, but also comprehensive support, including good medical care, nutrition consultation, and emergency healthcare facilities, is equally vital for girls. 
 
Abdus Sattar emphasized the importance of financial support to boost women’s participation in sports.
 
Similarly, Sumi Akhter, a lecturer at Mymensingh Physical Education College, advocated for a safe sports environment and equal opportunities for women to ensure their full participation. 
 
She also highlighted the need for improved training and coaching systems, including specialized programs and camps with skilled coaches.
 
Additionally, she suggested increasing scholarships, and sponsorships to help cover the costs of women’s sports.
 
The success of Bangladeshi female athletes on the world stage demonstrates that with proper opportunities and support, women can excel in any field. Therefore, societal support is crucial to enhancing women's involvement in sports.