Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, has called on all citizens to prioritise environmental protection and climate action to secure the country’s future.
She was delivering speech at Stamford University Bangladesh’s Convocation 2025 at the Expo Village of Bashundhara International Convention Center on Saturday.
The adviser stressed that building an environmentally friendly, just, humane, and women-friendly society requires responsible engagement from everyone.
Warning of the consequences of inaction, she said, “The Bangladesh we know today — our children may not see that same map if we do not act now.”
She highlighted challenges such as air pollution, deforestation, and river pollution, noting that while these cannot be resolved overnight, gradual progress is possible through sustained efforts.
“River restoration activities are already underway, and legal and policy reforms for environmental protection are in progress. With proper cooperation, these initiatives will advance more swiftly,” she added.
On animal welfare, she said, “Our faith teaches us to show compassion to animals. Yet, we often act with cruelty- not only towards people but towards animals as well. A humane society must show kindness to all living beings and to nature.”
She also underscored the role of families, society, and educational institutions in nurturing a better generation.
“Building a just and equitable Bangladesh requires positive change within ourselves. Despite past injustices and challenges, people’s aspirations have repeatedly shown the way toward progress,” she said.
“We want a society free of discrimination. Politics must centre around people’s rights and empowerment,” she said.
Presiding over the convocation, Salehuddin Ahmed, adviser to the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Science and Technology, encouraged graduates to take responsibility, work for society, remain diligent, dream big, and dedicate themselves to serving humanity.
Other speakers included Professor Farahnaaz Feroz, chairperson of the Board of Trustees; Professor Younus Miah, acting vice-chancellor; and Registrar Muhammad Abdul Matin.
A total of 1,407 graduates from five faculties and 14 departments received their degrees at Convocation 2025. For outstanding academic performance, 10 students received the Chancellor’s Gold Medal and 40 students were awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Gold Medal for achieving the highest CGPA.
