The Department of Environmental Science and the IUBAT Institute of SDG Studies took a significant step towards promoting sustainability by organizing the 1st Sustainability Olympiad 2024 at IUBAT on February 27.
This marks the first sustainability Olympiad program in any educational institution in Bangladesh, drawing participation from around 100 students representing different colleges, with 30 college principals also in attendance.
The Sustainability Olympiad focused on engaging students in discussions and solutions related to pressing environmental challenges, including waste management, environmental pollution, climate change, and sustainability practices.
Students participated in double-round competitions, showcasing their understanding of key environmental issues in Bangladesh and proposing sustainable solutions.
The event provided a platform for students to express their opinions on environmental problems, with many demonstrating outstanding insights into sustainable practices.
The top ten winners were selected through a quiz and an instant idea presentation, culminating in a grant-giving ceremony where they were awarded approximately Tk30,000 each and certificates.
The overall champion, first runner-up, and second runner-up received gold, silver, and bronze medals.
The chief guest for the ceremony was Dr Susan Vize, Country Head of UnescoBangladesh, accompanied by MA Hossain, Managing Director of JR Recycling Solutions Ltd, as the special guest, and AbulAlim from Windy Group, serving as the guest of honor.
Prof Peggy Barlett, Emeritus Professor from Emory University, USA, delivered a video speech as a guest speaker, highlighting the global importance of sustainable practices.
The Vice-Chancellor of IUBAT, Prof Dr Abdur Rab, presided over the ceremony, and other speakers included Prof Selina Nargis, Treasurer of IUBAT, Prof Ataur Rahman, Chair of the Department of Environmental Science, Dr Ferdous Ahmed, and Dr Rehan Dastagir.
The quiz competition and instant presentation were facilitated by Dr Md Shafiqul Islam, with support from Dr Sayma Akhter, Dr Mariyam Sultana Marry, and Dr Rimana Islam Papry from the Department of Environmental Science at IUBAT.
Expressing their vision, the organizers aim to extend the Sustainability Olympiad to the national level, fostering a sense of responsibility and contributing to creating a sustainable society.
The event showcased the commitment of educational institutions in Bangladesh to addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development.
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