School students rally against climate change

Despite it being the weekly holiday, children of Barishal city gathered at their respective schools and held rallies on Friday, demanding a safe future and protection against climate change.

They also brought out a procession from Ashwini Kumar Hall to Shaheed Minar and formed a human chain.

Future of Bangladesh is more vulnerable due to climate change and its effects.

“We demand climate justice against this risk,” said Arif Jobayer, a student.

“Ensure our safety; we want implementation of the Paris treaty,” he added.

Sohanur Rahman, chief coordinator of YouthNet for Climate Justice, said children of different countries walked out from their classrooms -- as part of a school strike -- demanding assurance of actions against climate change from policymakers.  

Although schools were closed on Friday, children of Barishal brought out the processions in solidarity.

Deputy Commissioner of Barishal SM Ajior Rahman said such kinds of awareness-raising programmes should be arranged more often, to start a public discussion.

“This is just the start. We will continue more programmes on this issue,” said Sakila Islam, one of the organisers.

YouthNet for Climate Justice arranged the programme with assistance from Barishal City Corporation.