Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) and World Vision Bangladesh held a policy dialogue on Monday to identify the impact of environmental pollution on children and discuss measures to reduce pollution at the local level.
The day-long dialogue was organised at GAU’s Old Auditorium in Gazipur, bringing together policymakers, administrators, environmental experts, civil society representatives, youth groups and students. GAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr GKM Mustafizur Rahman attended the event as chief guest, while Gazipur Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Md Nurul Karim Bhuiyan and Gazipur City Corporation Chief Executive Officer Tanzila Khanom were present as special guests, said a press release.
Joanna D’Rosario, Senior Manager of the Urban Program at World Vision Bangladesh, chaired the programme, which began with child forum representatives welcoming guests with tree saplings to highlight the need for a cleaner and healthier environment for children.
In his welcome address, Tongi Urban Program Area Manager Manas Biswas stressed stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address environmental challenges at the local level.
Professor Dr Mohammad Saiful Alam, Professor of Soil Science and Proctor of GAU, delivered the keynote presentation on the causes and consequences of environmental pollution, along with possible prevention and mitigation measures.
The presentation was followed by a panel discussion involving five panellists and an open discussion, where participants shared concerns, experiences and recommendations.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Commissioner Md Nurul Karim Bhuiyan said effective management of waste generated at the individual level could significantly help prevent pollution collectively.
“Gazipur District Administration is keen to work with all stakeholders through a partnership-based approach to make Gazipur a pollution-free and child-friendly city,” he said, urging citizens to begin positive change from their homes and surroundings.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr GKM Mustafizur Rahman said expanding tree coverage was essential to combat air pollution.
“There is no alternative to planting adequate numbers of trees to reduce air pollution,” he said, referring to the national initiative to plant 250 million trees over five years as a landmark environmental measure.
He said GAU remains committed to coordinated initiatives to help build a safe, clean and healthy urban environment for children and citizens.
The programme concluded with closing remarks by Joanna D’Rosario.
