University of Dhaka’s Department of Meteorology on Tuesday observed the “International awareness day on avoidable deaths” with the theme “Early warning and awareness are the key to reducing avoidable deaths”.
Marking the day, a rally was brought out in the morning from the Administrative Building premises, reads a press release.
Vice-Chancellor ABM Obaidul Islam led the procession as chief guest. The rally concluded at the Central Shaheed Minar.
Among others, Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences Md Humayun Kabir, Department Chairman Md Robiul Auwal, Associate Professor Fatima Akter, along with teachers and students, took part in the programme. The event was organised with the support of the Avoidable Deaths Network (ADN) Bangladesh Chapter.
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice-Chancellor underscored the importance of early warning systems in disaster preparedness and risk reduction. He said that timely alerts, effective communication, and inclusive participation could significantly minimise loss of life and property in many cases.
He also stressed the need for year-round awareness activities in disaster-prone areas and called for collective efforts to raise public awareness.
He added many deaths occur due to health risks, lack of timely medical care, absence of safe shelter, drowning in floodwaters, snake bites, fires, or inadequate information leading to poor decision-making.
He said that such avoidable deaths could be reduced through timely and appropriate measures. He urged teachers and students of the university to play a leading role in increasing public awareness.
Expressing hope, he added that awareness initiatives would not remain confined to academic settings but would extend to policymaking, field-level activities, and national development.
