AIUB journalism students organise biodiversity walk at Dhanmondi Lake

Environmental journalists and nature writers join students in their awareness walk

Students of American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) have taken part in a biodiversity walk at Dhanmondi Lake aimed at raising awareness about protecting urban ecological spaces.

The event, titled “Nature in the City – Bridging Learning and Practice Through a Biodiversity Walk”, was organised on Friday by the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication for students of the Environmental Journalism course.

According to a media statement, the initiative brought together students with environmental journalists, a nature writer and urban design experts to promote understanding of biodiversity and its role in city life.

Assistant Professor Afroja Shoma, who led the walk, said the event aimed to connect academic learning with real-world environmental challenges.

Nature writer Mokaram Hossain provided hands-on guidance on identifying trees and flowers, highlighting the importance of preserving native species.

Architect Mohammed Emran Hossain spoke about the role of urban planning in integrating greenery into city design, while academic Mahmudul Islam Forhad stressed the need to conserve shrinking natural spaces.

Environmental journalists Sadiqur Rahman Mithun, Samsur Rahman Adil, and Mostafa Yousuf also joined the walk, discussing reporting techniques, identifying local environmental issues, and holding polluters accountable.

Dhanmondi Lake, one of Dhaka’s key green spaces, is home to dozens of bird species but faces challenges such as water pollution, plastic waste, and noise and light pollution, the statement said.

Organisers said the initiative aimed to encourage young people to take greater responsibility for protecting urban biodiversity.