Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, emphasized the importance of adopting healthy habits for a brighter and more resilient future.

“If habits can be changed, there will be no need to worry about diseases,” she said.

She made these remarks at the closing ceremony of the "Health Olympiad and Online Quiz Competition 2024," held on Friday at the Abdul Karim Sahityabisharad Auditorium of the Bangla Academy.

The event aimed to raise awareness about health issues among school students.

Sustainability no longer a choice but a necessity: Adviser Rizwana

Rizwana Hasan mentioned that carrying food in polythene bags and using plastic cups for hot drinks should be stopped. People should also develop the habit of wearing masks considering the environmental situation. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and ensuring proper sleep are essential.

The Adviser also added that if citizens are not healthy, the nation cannot be healthy. Tuberculosis is no longer a major problem, but awareness is key. Knowledge brings strength. Such competitions play a crucial role in increasing health awareness among students.

The event was presided over by Matiur Rahman, Editor of Prothom Alo. Professor Dr. Nazmul Hossain, Director General of the Directorate of Health Education, Samina Chowdhury, Team Lead at USAID, Dr. Tahmeed Ahmed, Executive Director of ICDDR,B, Dr. Md. Jahangir Kabir, Program Manager of the National Tuberculosis Control Program, and Saira Banu, Senior Scientist at ICDDR,B, were also present.

Prizes, certificates, and trophies were awarded to the winners. Approximately 550 students from various educational institutions across the country participated in the Health Olympiad, jointly organized by ICDDR,B and Prothom Alo with support from USAID.