Environmental protection will shape our future: Rizwana

Environmental protection is the key to shaping our future, and development must be pursued in a manner that does not exert excessive pressure on nature, said Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, and the Ministry of Water Resources.

She emphasized that nature can never be conquered; rather, humanity must learn to coexist with it harmoniously. In an evolving world, sustainability must be at the heart of our way of life.

She made these remarks on Saturday while delivering her address as the Convocation President at the first convocation ceremony of the University of Scholars at the Sena Prangon in Dhaka Cantonment.

Calling upon students to actively contribute to mitigating noise and plastic pollution, the Adviser stressed that their responsibility extends beyond their personal aspirations—it encompasses the future of the nation as well.

She said, “True education is realized when it serves the betterment of society and the country. Posting on social media alone will not bring about change; real transformation requires action.”

She further underscored that the future of Bangladesh depends on the choices made by today’s youth, urging them to uphold ethics, values, and a strong sense of responsibility as they move forward.

Highlighting the need for an effective system to ensure accessible services for all, Syeda Rizwana Hasan said, “Our duty is not just to think about ourselves but also to consider the welfare of society and the country. We must simplify service delivery so that ordinary citizens do not face unnecessary hurdles. The time has come for all of us to contribute towards national progress. Through collective effort, we can build a prosperous and sustainable Bangladesh.”

On the topic of social transformation, she said, “We often blame others for societal shortcomings while resisting change within ourselves. The government alone cannot drive transformation; each of us must take part in the process. If we become aware of our responsibilities, a greener and more sustainable Bangladesh is indeed achievable.”

The event was also graced by the presence of Prof Dr M Aminul Islam, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser for the Ministry of Education; Admiral (Retd) Farid Habib, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Scholars; Prof Dr Enamul Basher, Vice-Chancellor of the University; and Azam J Chowdhury, Chairman of East Coast Group, who served as the Convocation Speaker.

The ceremony concluded with the distribution of graduation certificates, along with medals and certificates for gold medalists.