Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today emphasized the urgent need to halt wildlife hunting and trafficking as crucial measures to protect biodiversity. She stressed the importance of conserving all wildlife, including tigers and elephants, and called for an end to deforestation to preserve existing forests. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the national closing ceremony of the 'Wildlife Olympiad' held at Viqarunnisa Noon School and College in Dhaka. As an alumna of the institution, she shared personal memories and announced an initiative to designate an old tree at the school as a memorial tree. Rizwana underscored the impact of small initiatives in environmental protection and highlighted the conservation message propagated through the Wildlife Olympiad. She envisioned a green and beautiful Bangladesh for future generations and mentioned various measures to protect the country's only coral islan d, Saint Martin. Rizwana also urged the public to avoid using plastic bags, reduce unnecessary honking, and conserve electricity by switching off fans and lights during the day. The event was attended by Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hosain Chowdhury, and Viqarunnisa Noon School and College Principal Majeda Begum. It featured the Olympiad's theme song, a musical drama, and a pledge against wildlife poaching. All participating students received T-shirts, certificates, and gift items, while winners in each category were awarded cash prizes of Taka 50,000, Taka 30,000, and Taka 20,000 for first, second, and third places, respectively. This year's Olympiad attracted 107,000 students nationwide, with district rounds conducted across the country, where the Forest Department awarded prizes and certificates to district-level winners. Before the event, Adviser Rizwana laid the foundation stone for a six-storey academic building and inaugurated an eight-storey ICT bui lding at Viqarunnisa Noon School and College.
