Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) Vice-Chancellor Professor GKM Mustafizur Rahman has emphasised the importance of soil and trees in safeguarding human health. Speaking at a training programme titled “Webpage Update Mastery: Techniques and Strategies for Effective Personal Web Presence” on 7 Tuesday April 2026, he highlighted the connection between the environment and human wellbeing in light of World Health Day.
Professor Rahman, an internationally renowned soil and environmental scientist, explained that this year’s World Health Day theme, “Science for Health, Safe for All Living Beings,” underscores the need to protect not only human health but also the environment, including soil and trees. He pointed out that healthy lifestyles are closely tied to fertile soil, nutritious crops, and green landscapes.
Citing scientific evidence, Professor Rahman noted that microorganisms in healthy soil maintain soil fertility and improve the nutritional quality of crops, ultimately strengthening human immunity. He further explained that healthy soil absorbs rainwater, reduces waterlogging, prevents erosion, and serves as a natural carbon sink by absorbing carbon dioxide, helping mitigate global warming. Additionally, trees provide oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide, and regulate local temperatures. Their roots stabilise soil, prevent erosion and landslides, and provide habitats for diverse life forms. Green environments also contribute to reduced stress and improved mental wellbeing.
“Gazipur Agricultural University continues to work tirelessly through research and innovation in agriculture, nutrition, and the environment to ensure healthy lives and safe food,” Professor Rahman stated. “Our goal is to advance science-based initiatives that protect the wellbeing of humans, animals, and nature together as part of the One Health concept. Therefore, caring for soil and trees is just as important as caring for human health.”
The event was chaired by Professor Nasrin Akter Ivy, Director of IQAC, with special guests including Professor M Moynul Haque, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and Professor Md Safiul Islam Afrad, Treasurer. Deans, directors, faculty members, and departmental heads of the university also attended the training session.
