Rajshahi: Highlighting the importance of the Divisional Youth Festival, speakers unanimously emphasized the urgency of elevating the voices of those most affected by climate change to decision-making levels. The event aimed to address how climate change exacerbates existing social and gender inequalities, stressing the need for youth leadership in ensuring climate justice and gender equality.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the closing ceremony of the "Tarunya Utshab" on climate justice and gender equality took place at the auditorium of New Government Degree College, Rajshahi, with administrative officials and stakeholders in attendance. Deputy Commissioner Kazi Shahidul Islam, the chief guest, underscored the inadequacy of government initiatives alone in combating climate change impacts. He advocated for integrating the knowledge, innovation, creativity, and social responsibility of the youth to address these challenges.
Deputy Commissioner Islam further noted that climate adaptation and sustainable development are unattainable without women's participation. Ensuring equal involvement of women and youth at all levels of family, society, and state is vital for building a just and climate-resilient society. The festival, organized by the civic organization DASCOH Foundation and Barendrabhumi Social Development Organisation, was presided over by Professor Dr. Shikha Sarker, Principal of New Government Degree College.
District Coordinator Madan Das presented the main article, while other notable speakers included Deputy Director of Rajshahi Department of Women's Affairs Israt Jahan, Vice-Principal of the college Prof. Motiur Rahman, Executive Director of BSDO Abdur Rouf, Fund Management Expert Aziza Asfin, and Deputy Director of Wave Foundation Kaniz Fatema. The event also featured a panel discussion with young climate champions from Rajshahi and Naogaon districts, highlighting various youth-led initiatives on climate and gender equality across several upazilas.
The festival included an 'Idea Competition', wall magazine exhibition, and Gambhira performances focusing on climate change and women's development. Prizes were awarded to winners of quiz, extempore speech, and idea competitions. This youth festival is part of the "Gender Equality Transforms Climate Action (GETCA)" project, led by the Wave Foundation in collaboration with several development organizations, being implemented in five districts of Rajshahi and Barisal divisions.