On November 19, 2023, a certificate-giving ceremony was organized by ESDO at Rangpur Government Girls High School to award students who actively participated in the Brand Audit 2023. This initiative aimed to identify the brands that are producing single-use plastics and polluting our environment.
The students of Rangpur Govt. Girls High School got training from the ESDO team on building their campus plastic-free. They attended the two-day-long capacity-building session in the month of May on what can be done to build a plastic-free campus, how they can lead a plastic-free life, and how they can encourage others to do so. For six months, they have been practicing the knowledge gained during the sessions, and they have totally refused the use of single-use plastic and brought their own eco-friendly bottles to campus. They have set up central pitchers and steel mugs for drinking water. In total, 50 students were trained during ESDO’s environmental education camp, but those 50 students have encouraged another 300 students in their school to lead a plastic-free life and refuse single-use plastic. Not only students but also they have encouraged the guardians. On the day of the certificate-giving ceremony, they conduct an awareness campaign among the parents to motivate them to lead a plastic-free life. This initiative by the students of Rangpur Govt. Girls High School has proved that youth can bring actual changes to our society and nation through their hard work and determination.
The event was graced by the presence of Sajeda Begum, Head Teacher of Rangpur Government Girls High School. Waleda Begum, Assistant Head Teacher, and Tahira Akhter Banu, Senior Teacher, also attended the event, showcasing the school’s commitment to environmental awareness. The event was conducted by Md. Asif Imran, Senior Program Associate of ESDO. He provided valuable insights into the environmental impact of single-use plastics.
Sajeda Begum, the Head Teacher, emphasized the pivotal role that educational institutions play in shaping responsible citizens. She stated, “Our commitment to environmental sustainability is not just a part of our curriculum; it is a fundamental aspect of our ethos. We believe that by nurturing a sense of responsibility towards the environment, we are not only educating our students but also empowering them to be catalysts for positive change.”
Waleda Begum, the Assistant Head Teacher, stated the need for collective action, saying, “Teaching extends beyond the confines of textbooks. It is about fostering values and nurturing a sense of responsibility. The Brand Audit initiative has allowed our students to actively engage with real-world issues.”
Tahira Akhter Banu, the Senior Teacher, praised the students for their active participation in the Brand Audit 2023 and remarked, “Today’s youth are the stewards of tomorrow’s environment. It is heartening to witness our students taking a proactive stance in identifying and addressing environmental issues. This event not only celebrates their achievements but also reinforces our commitment to sustainable living.”
