Without ensuring the fundamental rights of the people it is not possible to ensure democracy and good governance in the country, students participating at the first ever Democracy Olympiad said yesterday.

The students, however, added that one must know about the fundamental rights first and the responsibilities that comes along with it.

Shushashoner Jonno Nagorik (Shujan) organised the Olympiad at Prime University at Mirpur in the capital.

About 400 enthusiastic students from 16 universities

and colleges attended the Olympiad where they pledged to become better citizens and work for the country.

The Olympiad started with a quiz.

Participating students also joined in debates and shared their views about the country's current situation and how good governance can be strengthened.

Md Mawdud Ahmed and Md Mehedi Hasan of Prime University became champion and runner-up in the universitysection.

While Shathi Akter from Bangla College became the champion in the college section and Md Musfikul Azam of Dhaka College became run-

ner-up.

Another 20 participants were also awarded for their performances at the Olympiad.

The guests attending the Olympiad stressed the role of the youth as the advocates of good governance.

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Chairman M Hafiz Uddin Khan said democracy is the foundation of good governance.

"We are still lagging behind in establishing good governance in the country. The youth must take the leading role in creating awareness and establishing democracy," added Hafiz, a former adviser

to a caretaker government and also the vice chairman of Shujan.

Shujan Secretary Badiul Alam Majumder said the purpose of the Olympiad is to engage youths in the democratic process of the country.

They have to work together to bring changes, he added.

He also stressed bringing back the lost glory of student politics that shaped the history of the nation.

ASM Shahjahan, executive member of Shujan and former adviser to a caretaker government, Dr M Abdus Samad, vice chancellor of Prime University, and Mir Shahbuddin, pro-vice chancellor, also spoke.