Youth to work together to tackle climate change
The youth of Khulna in Bangladesh have pledged to tackle climate change under the Navodaya project of JAAGO Foundation. The title of the dialogue was ‘Youth Dialogue: What are the thoughts of the youth on tackling climate change?’ held at Chalna Municipality, Khulna.
Participants made three promises to address climate change, displayed them on a promise wall, and vowed to protect the environment.
Then, Iftikhar-ul-Karim, Senior Manager of the Project Implementation Team of JAGGO Foundation Trust, recited the oath to all present:
“I swear that I will protect Bangladesh from the threat of climate change. I will play an effective role, inspire others. I will take our country forward on the path to a sustainable and safe future. I am committed to fulfilling my responsibility as a protector of the environment.”
He said, “JAGGO Foundation works with youth across the country for development work. The southern part of Bangladesh, especially Khulna, is very vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
‘Developed countries buy wood from us to protect their forests, but we aren’t fully aware of the damage caused by forest destruction. It is very important to realize the importance of forest conservation in combating climate change,’ he added.
Ratan Kumar Adhikari, Regional Manager of Khulna Region of HEED Bangladesh, and senior journalist Sheikh Didarul Alam spoke at the event.
Ratan Kumar Adhikari said, ‘This region had many diverse products, including sweet date palm juice and large fish in the canals 30-40 years ago. But due to the impact of climate change, these resources are no longer available in the quantities and qualities.
We ourselves are responsible for this change. Therefore, our youth have to come forward and play an effective role in preventing it.’
Senior journalist Sheikh Didarul Alam emphasized the need for accountability and goodwill among officials to effectively implement government climate change projects. We need to change our perspective and mindset to participate in the development of the country.’
The event was also addressed by Kalipada Mistry, Headmaster, Par-Joynagar Government Primary School; Md Azizul Haque, Operation Manager, Nobo Jatra, World Vision Bangladesh and Md Saiful Alam, District Coordinator, YouthNet.
Representatives of youth organizations, participants of the Navodaya Project and various young climate leaders also delivered speeches. They all called for youth-led environmental conservation and encouraged the participants to work to combat climate change from their respective positions.
