Mahmudur Rahman Tamim, a finance student at Chittagong University, is bringing a unique environmental message to his campaign for the post of social welfare, environment, and human rights secretary in the upcoming Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (Cucsu) polls.
Tamim’s campaign posters and leaflets are printed on recycled “plantable” paper, a special type of paper embedded with seeds that can grow into trees when planted in soil. This eco-friendly approach has sparked curiosity and interest among fellow students.
Speaking to TIMES of Bangladesh, Tamim said, “It’s wrong to harm the environment in the name of campaigning. My aim is to ensure that the campaign actually benefits the environment.”
He has been actively involved with the university’s environmental group, ‘Green Campus,’ for several years, regularly participating in tree planting drives, cleanliness campaigns, and awareness programmes.
His election manifesto includes commitments to introduce modern waste management in the dormitories, eliminate foul odors in washrooms, prevent unnecessary tree cutting, and conduct regular spraying to control mosquitoes and pests.
Additionally, Tamim plans to establish a “Support Fund” and a “Legal Aid Cell” to assist financially disadvantaged students. He also proposes forming a “Human Rights Protection Cell,” comprising both students and faculty, to safeguard human rights on campus.
According to Tamim, “Student politics is not just about leadership; it reflects responsibility towards society and the environment.”
Currently, Tamim’s eco-friendly campaign, distributing leaflets printed on plantable paper, is a hot topic in the corridors of Shahjalal Hall.
The Chittagong University Central Students’ Union and hall union elections are scheduled to be held on 15 October.
