Dhaka: Five hundred runners on Friday participated in the 5 km run at Hatirjheel to promote good health, fitness and positivity among the young generation putting forward the demand for safe spaces for them.

Enduring early morning rain, runners from different ages joined the event organised by Bangladesh Youth Leadership Centre (BYLC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports observing this year’s UN International Youth Day’s theme ‘Safe Spaces for Youth’, said a press release, reports the UNB.

By bringing people together to run through part of the city, BYLC hopes to draw attention to youth’s right to physical as well as intellectual safe spaces, where they are able to engage in recreational activities, participate in decision making processes, and express themselves freely.

Speaking as the chief guest, Youth and Sports Secretary Md. Ashadul Islam said his ministry is committed to working with young people to help improve their health, livelihood, and safety.

Speaking about the event, Founder and President, BYLC Ejaj Ahmad said, it is imperative that the youth have the space and opportunities to stay healthy, safe and active.

‘We also wanted to bring focus to this year’s UN International Youth Day’s theme of Safe Space for Youth as cities in Bangladesh have become increasingly dangerous for young people and they deserve better’, he said adding that the run event was dedicated to the students who met untimely deaths due to road accidents and to those who are fighting for better road safety.

The run was organized with support from Praava Health, Elite Force, and Paragon Group.