Photo: Collected

DHAKA, July 7, 2025 (BSS) – National leaders, academics, and diplomats have underscored the need for stronger political commitment and local ownership in addressing climate and environmental challenges as they celebrated young Bangladeshi talents at the National Earth Olympiad (NEO) 2025 Award Ceremony in Dhaka.

Hosted at the French Ambassador’s residence in the capital on Saturday, the event honoured four outstanding students who will represent Bangladesh at the International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) 2025 in China, reflecting the country’s continued commitment to nurturing youth-led climate leadership and environmental education, said a press release here today. 
 
This year’s NEO, organised by the Bangladesh Youth Environmental Initiative (BYEI), witnessed the participation of over 1,500 students nationwide, demonstrating the growing interest of Bangladesh’s young generation in earth sciences and climate action. 

Following a rigorous selection process, Mohammad Tahmid Rahman was named champion, while Omar Bin Arif, Sheikh Fahim Mahmud, and Faaris Ahmed Aayan secured the positions of first, second, and third runner-up respectively.

“Our climate and ecological journey must be viewed through local and political lenses to ensure effective environmental justice,” said Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, BNP Standing Committee Member, while addressing the ceremony as Chief Guest. 
He emphasised that without political engagement, achieving environmental justice would remain incomplete.

French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy, in her opening remarks, praised BYEI’s efforts and urged for increased political commitment to tackle climate challenges in Bangladesh, highlighting the critical role of youth in this journey.

BYEI Executive Director and Founder Shamir Shehab shared the organisation’s journey since 2009 and noted that the youth-driven initiative has become a nationwide movement for environmental justice, thanks to the tireless efforts of students, volunteers, and mentors.

In its journey, Team Bangladesh has previously secured 4 Gold, 4 Silver, and 17 Bronze medals at international platforms, demonstrating the country’s rising potential in earth science education.

The National Earth Olympiad, a flagship program of BYEI, aims to prepare young Bangladeshis to address future climate and environmental challenges through education, capacity-building, and global exposure.