Young footballer Raju Ahmed Bhuiyan has travelled to Azerbaijan to represent Bangladesh on the international stage, marking a proud moment for Jagannathpur, a haor-region town in Sunamganj.

Raju left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport with the Bangladesh national team on Wednesday morning to participate in the FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Football Festival as a member of the Bangladesh Under-15 national football team.

His achievement has brought immense pride to his family, teachers and the local sporting community in Jagannathpur.

Raju is the youngest child of Golam Rabbani Bhuiyan, a resident of Ikor Chhoi Lomba Hati in Jagannathpur Municipality. The youngest of three brothers and two sisters, he studies at Swarup Chandra Government High School. Alongside his studies, the young footballer has developed his skills on the field, playing as a forward in the attacking line.

Raju expressed his excitement at getting the opportunity to play abroad for the national team.

“Since childhood, I have dreamed of playing in the red-and-green jersey of the national team. Today, I am going abroad to represent my country as that dream comes true. Please pray for me so that I can deliver my best performance for the country,” he said.

Teachers and classmates at his school have also expressed their happiness over his success.

Mohammad Syednur, acting headteacher of Swarup Chandra Government High School, said Raju’s exceptional football talent caught his attention when the youngster was in Class Seven.

“Since then, I have regularly encouraged and supported him in pursuing football alongside his studies. Our entire school community is extremely proud of his achievement,” he said.

Saminur Rahman, general secretary of the Jagannathpur Upazila Football Association, said Raju’s success was the result of his dedication to football and years of hard work.

He described the opportunity for a young man from the haor region to represent Bangladesh on the international stage as a source of immense joy and pride for the people of Sunamganj.

He also wished Raju continued success in his football career.