In recognition of his outstanding contribution to environmental protection, sustainable development, and climate change awareness, Md Shafayat Hossain (Siam), president of Bashundhara Shuvosangho’s Bhola District Chapter, has been honoured with the prestigious Asian Green Award.
The award ceremony, organised by Asian Green Bangladesh and the Asian Women and Children Rights Foundation, was held on Tuesday night (7 Oct) at the Chattogram District Shilpakala Academy auditorium.
Shahadat Hossain, mayor of Chattogram City Corporation, attended the event as the chief guest and presented the award to Shafayat Hossain.
Organizers stated that Siam was recognised for his active involvement in promoting environmental awareness, conducting green initiatives, and implementing community-based programs to combat climate change and prevent environmental degradation in coastal Bangladesh.
Mayor Shahadat Hossain congratulated the awardees, saying, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the Asian Green Award winners. Their exceptional contributions to environmental protection are truly commendable. Safeguarding the environment is everyone’s responsibility, and we must work together to preserve it.”
Professor Md Rashidul Hasan, a faculty member in the Department of Civil Engineering, expressed pride in Siam’s achievement, noting that he has been conducting numerous environmental activities in coastal areas, particularly in Bhola. “We are delighted that one of our students has received such recognition,” he said.
Tota Mia, assistant director of the Department of Environment, Bhola, added, “Siam has been leading various environmental awareness initiatives, including campaigns against polythene use and programmes in collaboration with the Department of Environment. We are proud of his accomplishment.”
Expressing his gratitude, Md Shafayat Hossain (Siam) said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the Asian Green Award. I dedicate this achievement to my parents. This recognition will inspire me to continue working for environmental conservation on a larger scale.”
Members of Bashundhara Shuvosangho congratulated Siam, saying his achievement would inspire future generations to engage in eco-friendly initiatives and open new avenues for sustainable development in coastal regions.
The event was chaired by Lion M Zafar Ullah, chairman of the Asian Women and Children Rights Foundation, and attended by prominent guests including Jahidul Karim Kachi, member secretary of Chattogram Press Club; Ashiq Imran, honorary consul general of the Russian Federation in Chattogram; SK Khoda Toton, social worker and politician; Md Hanif Soudagar; Sabrina Sultana, deputy director of the Department of Environment, Chattogram; and media personalities such as Md Abul Hasnat, senior reporter of ATN Bangla.
Over the years, Siam has organised a series of impactful environmental initiatives in Bhola, including the Global Climate Strike, monthly seminars on “The Impact of Climate Change” in educational institutions, tree plantation programmes, anti-plastic pollution campaigns, and awareness drives urging boat and launch passengers to avoid dumping plastic waste into rivers.
His work continues to inspire local youth to take active roles in protecting the environment and building a greener, more sustainable Bangladesh.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM