Aminul Haque calls for unity among Muslim youth at OIC Youth Capital 2026

Youth and Sports State Minister Md. Aminul Haque called for greater unity among Muslim youth to collectively address pressing global challenges as Türkiye’s Konya formally launched the 'OIC Youth Capital 2026' with a vibrant opening ceremony.

Speaking at the inaugural session on Tuesday (May 12), the minister highlighted the significance of the platform in fostering cultural exchange, policy innovation and collaboration among youth across OIC member states.

Describing the initiative as a “unique platform,” he said it can play a crucial role in empowering young people to confront issues such as climate change and digital ethics while strengthening solidarity within the Muslim world.

The minister noted that Bangladesh is currently benefiting from a demographic dividend, with nearly one-third of its population being young. He said the government is actively supporting this generation through skill development, startup funding and investment in sports infrastructure to transform the country into a knowledge- and technology-driven economy.

“Today’s youth are the driving force behind Bangladesh’s transformation,” he said, adding that the goal is to turn young people from job seekers into job creators.

Highlighting sports as a tool for nation-building, the minister also proposed regular organization of 'OIC Games' to further strengthen unity and cooperation among Islamic countries.

The opening ceremony was also addressed by Türkiye’s Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Aşkın Bak, OIC Youth and Sports Department Head Dr. Boubakari Maïga, Konya Governor İbrahim Akın, and AK Party Deputy Chairman Ahmet Büyükgümüş. Representatives and youth leaders from OIC member states attended the event.