Khulna speakers call for environmental awareness, stronger civic roles and collective efforts to prevent child marriage and drug abuse. Photo : BSS

KHULNA, July 27, 2026 (BSS) – Speakers at a discussion in Khulna today underscored the need to raise public awareness and strengthen the roles of teachers, students, and civil society in protecting the environment and preventing child marriage.

Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md Abdullah Harun addressed the programme as the chief guest at the auditorium of Haji Faiz Uddin High Girls' School in Boyra.

He said individuals must first become aware of environmental conservation and inspire others to do the same to ensure a livable planet for future generations.

The divisional commissioner observed that rapid industrialisation has adversely affected the environment and contributed to rising temperatures, stressing that collective efforts are essential to address the challenges.

He also expressed concern over the growing spread of drug abuse and trafficking, urging people from all walks of life to build a social movement against narcotics and work together to create a healthy, safe, and drug-free society.

Additional District Magistrate Nurul Hai Mohammad Anas chaired the discussion.

Among others, Paikgacha Upazila Nirbahi Officer Wasiuzzaman Chowdhury, Deputy Director of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (Khulna Region) Md Kamruzzaman, Assistant Director of the Department of Environment Md Harun-or-Rashid, and Deputy Director of the Department of Women's Affairs Suraiya Siddika spoke as special guests.

Former vice-president of the school's managing committee Sheikh Mostafa Kamal delivered the welcome address, while convener of the organising committee Advocate Sheikh Oliul Islam conducted the programme.

The Department of Women's Affairs and the Department of Environment jointly organised the event with support from World Vision to mark World Environment Day.

On the occasion, the divisional commissioner presented honorary crests to the Paikgacha UNO and the Assistant Director of the Department of Environment in recognition of their contributions to environmental protection.