Online Desk :
The Sirajganj phase of the “Inter-school Debate Competition 2024 on Plastic Use and Management,” organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in collaboration with the Bangladesh Debate Federation (BDF) on SUnday at the Sirajganj officers’ club, said a press release. This two-day event aimed to raise awareness about plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices among students.
In a highly competitive final, Police Lines School and College emerged as champions, while Sirajganj Power Development Board High School secured the runner-up position. Jabir Ibn Haque from the runner-up team was recognized as the best debater of the finals. A total of 16 teams participated, showcasing their critical thinking and debating skills on pressing environmental issues related to plastic use and waste management.
As the chief guest, Additional District Magistrate Litus Lowrence Chiran underscored the importance of youth involvement in tackling plastic pollution. He stated, “Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue; it is a challenge to our collective future.” Chiran urged students to analyze critical discourses through debate, emphasizing their potential to drive meaningful change.
Deputy Director of the Department of Environment, Md Abdul Gaofur, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the necessity of community engagement in sustainability efforts. “The fight against plastic pollution begins at the grassroots level,” she said, stressing that youth insights are vital for building a more sustainable community.
UNIDO’s National Expert for Plastic Recycling, Mahobul Islam, reiterated the goal of the competition to encourage students to explore the complexities of plastic pollution and contribute to policy development and community awareness. He noted, “Engaging students through debate helps bring these issues to the forefront and encourages innovative thinking.”
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Sirajganj Sadar, Md Monowar Hossain, praised the event’s success and highlighted the significance of adopting a circular economy to combat plastic waste. “We are proud to host this debate competition in Sirajganj, and it is encouraging to see young minds actively engaging with such critical topics,” he remarked.
The event is part of the “Integrated Approach Towards Sustainable Plastics Use and Marine Litter Prevention in Bangladesh,” a project jointly implemented by UNIDO and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. This initiative is funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway.
Plaban Gongopaddhay, President of BDF, concluded the event by emphasizing the role of debates in fostering critical thinking among students. “The enthusiasm shown by these students reaffirms their commitment to making a positive impact,” he stated.
The event drew the attention of government officials, civil society members, teachers, and local media representatives. With the Sirajganj phase successfully completed, the next debate is scheduled for Cox’s Bazar, continuing the effort to engage students in discussions about plastic waste management and sustainability.