With the theme of ‘Planet Oceans: tides are changing’, Dhaka University’s Department of Oceanography organised a colorful rally to observe World Oceans Day 2023 on Thursday at the university campus.
Dhaka University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr. M. Akhtaruzzaman was the chief guest of the event, reads a media release.
Dean of Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences Prof Dr. Zillur Rahman, Chairman of the Oceanography Department Dr AKM Azam Chowdhury, Dhaka University Teachers’ Association president professor Dr Md Nizamul Haque Bhuiyan participated in the rally among students and teachers from various departments.
Addressing at the rally, DU VC Prof Dr. M. Akhtaruzzaman said, “Our oceans are being polluted as pollution from the environment melts into the sea. We should be more responsible to our environment to keep the ocean free of pollution.”
“Ocean connects different regions, communities, and cultures around the world. And it has played key roles in making bridges among them. If oceans will not be safe, biodiversity and countries will be directly affected enormously,” the VC added.
He also urges teachers, students and researchers to do more research on keeping the oceans safe and free of pollution.
A seminar on ‘Potential of Blue Economy’ was held at the university’s Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Auditorium to mark the day .
Information Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud was present at the seminar as the chief guest while Dhaka University pro Vice Chancellor professor Dr ASM Maksud Kamal chaired the programme.
Information Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud said, “Bangladesh moving forward on the path of development overcoming challenges of natural disasters, environmental threats and over-population under the threat of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.”
The minister also urged everyone to be more responsible in protecting the environment, especially oceans.
DU pro Vice Chancellor professor Dr ASM Maksud Kamal urged to ban polythene bags and items to reduce environmental pollution.
The United Nations (UN) declared World Oceans Day as an official occasion in 2008. The UN has also hosted different themes each year to celebrate the day.
