JUST Hosts First National Conference on Climate Action and Sustainability
To foster awareness, expand technical knowledge, and explore pathways toward a sustainable future by 2050, the Department of Climate and Disaster Management (CDM) at Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST) organized its first-ever national conference.
Held on Thursday, July 17, at the university’s Professor Mohammad Sharif Hossain Gallery, the conference was titled “Climate Action and Sustainable Pathways—Reshape 2050.” The event brought together students from JUST and various other universities to deliberate on climate resilience, disaster response, and long-term sustainability strategies.
The Vice-Chancellor of JUST, Professor Dr. Md. Abdul Majid, joined the conference virtually as the chief guest. In his address, he emphasized the ongoing shifts in global weather and climate patterns and noted that conferences like this play a vital role in preparing students to adapt to such changes. He said, “Through strategic discussions on managing the changing climate and its effects on the environment, society, and economy, students will acquire valuable insights. This event will serve as a milestone in their academic and civic journey, enabling them to grow into capable and conscious citizens.”
Professor Dr. Hossain Al Mamun, Treasurer of JUST, attended the event as a special guest. He remarked, “We are the ones who harm the environment, and thus we must be the first to become aware of climate change and educate others about it.” He encouraged students to engage in innovative thinking, pursue interdisciplinary knowledge, and use their learnings from the conference to become well-rounded, informed individuals.
The keynote speakers included Professor Dr. Hamidul Haque, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of Environment and Development Studies at United International University, Dhaka; Dr. Md. Shibli Sadiq, Senior Water Resources Policy Advisor at the Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh; and Zahid Amin Shwashoto, Head of Program, Climate Change and Water Governance (Uttaran), Tala, Satkhira.
Their presentations covered a wide array of topics, including nature-based solutions, disaster management, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), climate governance, urban resilience, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), agriculture and food security, and long-term development pathways for climate action. The presentations were supported with research data, case studies, and interactive visuals.
Professor Dr. Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman, Chair of the CDM department and convener of the conference, also delivered remarks at the event.
Faculty and students from JUST and other academic institutions participated actively throughout the day. The program concluded with oral and poster presentations, certificate and award distributions, a vote of thanks, and a group photo session. The event was moderated by Assistant Professor Hasan Md. Navid Anjum of the CDM department.
