Plant one tree each, PM Tarique tells children

As many as 200,000 saplings are being planted simultaneously across the country on the government primary schools premises

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged children to plant at least one tree every year and take responsibility for its care as part of efforts to protect the environment.

He made the appeal on Wednesday while inaugurating a nationwide tree-planting programme for government primary schools at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in Dhaka’s Agargaon.

The prime minister also launched the "Green School" initiative for primary school students. Students from 60 districts across the country participated in the programme.

Addressing the children, Tarique said: "My little friends, I hope each of you will try to plant one tree every year. It can be at your school or near your home—wherever you think is appropriate, plant a tree.

"You should also research how much oxygen that tree produces and the different ways it benefits people. Use the internet to learn more about it. All right, my little friends?"

As part of the initiative, nearly 200,000 saplings are being planted simultaneously on the premises of government primary schools across the country.

Highlighting the importance of trees, the prime minister said:

"In this way, every year you will learn something new about a different tree. When the trees planted at your school grow, they will provide you with shade. Whenever you feel tired, you will be able to rest beneath them.

"Similarly, if you plant a tree at home, when it grows, it will bring fresh air. You will be able to enjoy the breeze while sitting at home, and the environment will become much cooler."

Describing the occasion as “highly significant”, he added: "Today is a memorable day. Together, we have planted a large number of trees across the land of Bangladesh."

Earlier, the prime minister toured exhibition stalls set up by various primary schools at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center. He was accompanied by Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon and State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj.

The stalls showcased hand-drawn artwork by young students as well as paper handicrafts reflecting the cultural heritage of their respective regions.

They also featured various primary education initiatives, including the School Feeding Programme, Joyful Learning, Digital Education, and Foundation Learning.

During the visit, the prime minister interacted with teachers and students from primary schools and posed for photographs with them.