BRAC University hosts Global Environment Forum for University Students 2025
BRAC University hosted the "Global Environment Forum for University Students 2025" on its Merul Badda campus on Monday, bringing together students from Bangladesh and South Korea to foster cross-cultural collaboration for climate solutions.
Held under the theme "United for Transformative Green Campus & Sustainable Future," the forum was jointly organised by South Korea-based NGO DAEJAYON and BRAC University's Centre for Climate Change and Environmental Research (C3ER).
The event began with a keynote address from Dr Ainun Nishat, Professor Emeritus and Advisor to the C3ER, who warned that "Humanity is consuming natural resources 1.7 times faster than what ecosystems can regenerate." He stressed the need for universities to lead by example in adopting eco-friendly practices, both to reduce emissions and to model sustainable living.
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Dr Nishat highlighted BRAC University's environmentally conscious infrastructure, including its "breathing" building and systems for rainwater harvesting and solar energy—features that reduce energy consumption by 40 percent.
South Korean Ambassador to Bangladesh Park Young Sik said, "The energy and creativity of university students give us hope for a sustainable future."
Registrar David Dowland praised student-led initiatives like zero-waste campaigns, while Chief Guest Iqbal Abdullah Harun, Secretary to the Planning Division, commended BRAC University's use of natural ventilation, solar energy, and rainwater systems as benchmarks of environmental responsibility. "It is the deep commitment to student welfare and academic excellence that truly sets BRAC University apart," he said.
Roufa Khanum, Director of the C3ER, emphasised the role of campuses as platforms for sustainable living and nurturing future leaders. DAEJAYON Bangladesh Country Director Richard Molick underscored the urgent role of youth in addressing global environmental challenges.
The discussion was moderated by Dr Dwijen Lal Mallick, Fellow at the C3ER; Sharmin Nahar Nipa, Coordinator at the C3ER; and Jiyeong Lim, Coordinator of DAEJAYON.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the C3ER and DAEJAYON, reaffirming a long-term partnership for environmental collaboration and innovation in higher education.
Students from BRAC University, East West University, and DAEJAYON showcased earlier sustainability initiatives, including upcycling workshops, tree plantation drives, and community clean-up efforts.
