Rajshahi: A Climate Olympiad was held here today to raise awareness among students on environment, climate change, and agriculture, while encouraging them to take effective actions. The event was organized by the Association for Community Development (ACD) as part of the ‘Oxfam in Bangladesh’s Cultivating Change Project’ at the premises of Dr. Abu Bakar High School and College in Chanduria under Tanore upazila of the district.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a large number of secondary-level students from the surrounding areas participated in the program. The Olympiad commenced with the National Anthem, followed by a 30-minute competitive multiple-choice question examination on environment, agriculture, and climate change. Subrata Kumar Paul, the Project Coordinator, conducted the inaugural session and the competition.
A friendship session featuring an interactive question-and-answer segment was also organized. Discussions during the event focused on the differences between weather and climate, causes and impacts of climate change, changes in agriculture due to climate variability, and the role of students in ensuring food security and climate resilience.
After evaluating the answer scripts and conducting awareness-based cultural activities, 10 students were awarded environmental books, certificates, and publications based on merit among 120 participants. Additionally, all participants received “Environment-Friendly” Neem and Arjun trees.
In the concluding session, students took an oath to protect environmental balance, regularly plant and nurture trees, actively contribute to addressing the impacts of climate change, and support efforts to ensure food security. The event also featured a Gambhira folk performance, where answers to environmental and climate-related questions were presented through songs performed in the voices of a grandfather and grandchild, making the learning process enjoyable and engaging.
Academic Supervisor Saima Anjuman, Teacher Aminul Islam from Chanduria Dakhil Madrasa, Teacher Mosa Nasrin Anjum from Ratail High School, and Teacher Lipi Rani Saha from Dr. Abu Bakar High School, among others, were present at the event.