DHAKA, Nov 9, 2024 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser 
Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said wildlife hunting and trafficking must be 
checked to protect biodiversity. 

She called for conservation of all wildlife including tigers and elephants, 
saying deforestation should be stopped to protect existing forests. 

"Small initiatives for environmental protection can lead to significant 
change," Rizwana said 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 a former student of the school and college, she shared various memories 
and mentioned that an initiative would be taken to designate an old tree at 
the institution as a memorial tree. 

Rizwana further highlighted the message of conservation being spread through 
the Wildlife Olympiad, emphasising the vision for a green and beautiful 
Bangladesh for future generations.

She mentioned various measures taken to protect Bangladesh's only coral 
island Saint Martin and urged people to avoid using plastic bags, unnecessary 
honking, and to save electricity by turning off fans and lights during the 
day period. 

Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Chief Conservator of Forests Md. 
Amir Hosain Chowdhury and Viqarunnisa Noon School and College Principal 
Majeda Begum were also present.

The event showcased the Olympiad's theme song and a musical drama, followed 
by 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 drew 107,000 students nationwide, registered both online 
and offline. The district rounds took place across the country, with the 
Forest Department awarding prizes and certificates to the district-level 
winners.

Prior to the event, Adviser Rizwana laid the foundation stone for a six-
storey academic building and inaugurated an eight-storey ICT building at 
Viqarunnisa Noon School and College.