The Department of Environmental Science and Management (DESM), in collaboration with the Outreach, Extension, and Continuing Education (OECE) unit of Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), and with support from Cox's Bazar International School, organised a workshop titled "Empowering Young Minds: Awareness Workshop on Biodiversity and Conservation." The workshop aimed to educate underprivileged youth on the importance of eco-tourism in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh.

Held on Thursday, June 6, 2024, the one-day event was attended by 45 students from Cox's Bazar International School (CIS). The focus was on biodiversity conservation, highlighting the various animals and plants found in Cox's Bazar.

As one of Bangladesh's primary aquaculture hubs, Cox's Bazar, along with Khulna, plays a vital role in earning foreign currency revenue. The most commonly caught and consumed fish in Cox's Bazar include Jewfish, Ribbonfish, Hilsha, Catfish, Pomfret, and Shrimp.

The workshop engaged Class 8 students through an educational programme coordinated by Mr. Ekhtekharul Islam, Senior Lecturer of DESM. The programme began with an ice-breaking session and a motivational video speech by Dr. Md. Hafizur Rahman, Head of DESM. It included two sessions: the first explored the local ecosystem, discussing its diverse wildlife and the challenges it faces, while the second focused on sustainable tourism in Cox’s Bazar, emphasising the importance of preserving natural resources while promoting tourism.

The students actively participated in both sessions, showing enthusiasm and engaging in discussions during the informative 20-minute presentations. Following these sessions, the students took part in an activity where they identified local animals and documented the challenges these species face in their environment.

Additionally, a meeting was held with the school authorities to discuss potential collaborations and development initiatives. This discussion allowed the IUB team to explore opportunities for ongoing educational partnerships and community engagement efforts.

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