She urged them to become equally good at their studies and concentrate on science and knowledge side by side with their extracurricular activities.

Khaleda was addressing the participants and winners of competition in the Bangladesh Television's children's programme "Natun Kuri" at Rampura station yesterday evening.

The programme was telecast live on BTV. A total of 17,342 children divided into two age groups participated in the nationwide competition.

Some 170 children were awarded for their performances. Khaleda Sultana Suravi bagged the Gold Cup in 'Ka' group while Bidrum Purokayesta received the Gold Cup in 'Kha' group.

Begum Zia in her speech said today was the birthday of late President Ziaur Rahman who initiated the "Natun Kuri". Citing the patriotism, sincerity, honesty, courage, farsightedness and dedication of Ziaur Rahman, Khaleda hoped that the children would not only remember him but also follow his ideals.

She said "Natun Kuri" was making laudable contribution to enriching and making the cultural arena livelier and called upon all concerned to sustain the success.

She asked the boys and girls to become computer-literate in this competitive world and also be involved in sports to keep physically fit, alongside pursuit of knowledge.

Pointing at the underprivileged, deprived and less-fortunate children who cannot make to such programmes, Khaleda asked the participants not to forget them and work to mitigate their sufferings and share the happiness.

Mentioning that she has declared this year as the "Children's Literature Year", the prime minister asked the children to read more books and encourage their friends to read by presenting books on occasions.

Earlier, on arrival at the Rampura Television Centre, Khaleda was received by Information Minister Tariqul Islam.

Ministers, MPs and a large number of cultural activists witnessed the function.