Environment, Forests, Climate Change and Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan urged the country’s brightest students to dedicate their talents to building an eco-centric, sustainable Bangladesh.
She came up with the urge while as the chief guest at a programme where a total of 2,391 high-achieving students were awarded at the 24th O and A Level Awards Presentation Ceremony 2025.
The event was jointly organised by The Daily Star and HSBC, held on Saturday at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Exhibition Center in Dhaka.
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“We must consume less, pollute less, reuse, recycle, and ensure fair distribution of resources. Only by redefining our relationship with nature can we break free from the cycle of environmental degradation,” she said.
Addressing the awardees, Rizwana urged the students to focus not only on individual success but also on collective responsibility and sustainable development.
“What once seemed impossible is now within our reach, thanks to the vision and promise of students like you. A new Bangladesh awaits—one that must be defined not by individual success alone, but by a shared commitment to the environment and society,” she said.
The advisor also warned against the ongoing brain drain, encouraging students to return after studying abroad to serve the country. “If our brightest minds do not invest their talents here, how can we expect change?” she asked.
She further urged the audience to rethink conventional definitions of development, saying, “Development should not be measured merely by personal possessions. Our vision must place nature at its center—where consumption is responsible, and environmental stewardship is fundamental.”
Regretting the use of plastic bottles at the event, Rizwana stressed the need for behavioral change and sustainable practices in all aspects of life, including events and public gatherings.
In her closing remarks, she congratulated the students and called on them to give back to the nation.
“Love your country. Serve it selflessly. What Bangladesh has given you, you must pass forward to the next generation,” she said.
Earlier in the day, Dr Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Law Ministry, attended the first session of the ceremony as the chief guest.
The event was presided over by The Daily Star Editor and Publisher Mahfuz Anam and attended by senior officials from HSBC, The Daily Star and a large number of students, teachers and parents from across the country.