Metropolis Report –
The Jahangirnagar University campus is buzzing with excitement as a daylong bird fair is underway, aimed at raising mass awareness about wildlife conservation and bird preservation. The university’s zoology department, in association with several organizations, including Wildlife Rescue Centre, Bangladesh Bird Club, Aronnyok Foundation, and others, has organized the event.
The fair was officially inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Nurul Alam, in the morning at the Zahir Raihan auditorium premises. Convener of the fair, Professor Md Kamrul Hasan, expressed his hope for a successful event, particularly after the fair could not be held for the past two years due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
The daylong fair is packed with a variety of activities, including an opening session, a bird identification competition through audio and video, a debate on the environment, a bird painting competition for children, and an award-giving session.
In addition, seven bird conservationists have been honored with awards under three categories – Big Bird Bangladesh Award, Conservation Media Award, and Scientific Publication Award. These awards are aimed at recognizing and encouraging individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of bird conservation. One special award was given to Nazrul Islam, a rickshaw puller from Sherpur district, for his dedication to bird preservation. This was done to demonstrate that anyone, regardless of their background, can contribute to biodiversity preservation. As Professor Dr. M. Monirul H. Khan, Chairman of the Zoology Department of Jahangirnagar University, stated, “It is a message to society that even a rickshaw puller can contribute to preserving biodiversity”.
Visitors are in for a treat as they get to learn about various bird species and the importance of wildlife conservation. The fair is not only educational but also entertaining, with competitions and other engaging activities for visitors of all ages.
The Jahangirnagar University bird fair is a prime example of the university’s commitment to preserving the natural world and raising awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. The fair is expected to conclude on a high note, and organizers are already planning for the next edition.
