DHAKA : Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has called upon students to equip themselves with modern technology, scientific knowledge and human values and work for the welfare of people.

He also described environmental conservation and disaster management as complementary to each other, identifying sustainable environmental management as one of the key elements in reducing disaster risks.

The minister made the remarks while addressing a workshop titled "Building Future Leaders for a Safer and More Resilient World", organised by the Bachelor of Disaster Management (BDM) programme under the Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies at the auditorium of BRAC University in the capital's Rampura today.

He said that despite being one of the world's most climate-vulnerable countries, Bangladesh has set an exemplary model in the international arena in terms of disaster preparedness and resilience.

The minister noted that disaster-related deaths in the country have declined significantly due to the Cyclone Preparedness Programme, community volunteer networks, early warning systems and effective shelter management.

Mintoo said disaster management is not merely about post-disaster response; rather, it is an integrated process involving preparedness, risk reduction and the development of resilient communities to protect lives and property.

He said governments, international organisations and development partners across the world are increasingly seeking skilled professionals in disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation and humanitarian assistance.

At the programme, the minister informed students and guardians about the Bachelor of Disaster Management (BDM) programme of BRAC University's Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies and highlighted the importance of developing skilled human resources to address the impacts of climate change.

He expressed hope that graduates of the programme would make significant contributions at home and abroad to national development, strengthening climate resilience, ensuring environmental sustainability and reducing disaster risks.

The workshop also featured a panel discussion attended by Professor Dr Fuad H Mallick, Acting Chairperson of the Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies at BRAC University; Associate Professor Dr Emon Chowdhury of the department; Dr Susan Vize, Country Director of UNESCO Bangladesh; and Kabita Bose, Country Director of Plan International Bangladesh.