Celebrating World Meteorology Day 2024
The Department of Meteorology at the University of Dhaka, in collaboration with NOAMI (National Oceanographic and Maritime Institute) and SAMA (South Asian Meteorological Association), organized a vibrant event to commemorate World Meteorology Day 2024. The event aimed to celebrate the significance of meteorology and foster discussions on pressing issues such as climate change mitigation and innovation in meteorological sciences.
As we celebrate World Meteorological Day every year, this time we’ve expanded our reach to a broader audience, aligning with our theme. To express insights, feelings, and knowledge through thought-provoking written pieces and innovative farming ideas, while also capturing the breathtaking beauty of weather phenomena and climate issues we have arranged three online contests for the students:
• Photography contest
• Written contest
• Innovation challenge
The creative content writing contest and innovation challenge showcased the ingenuity and fresh perspectives of students, with numerous innovative solutions proposed to tackle meteorological and environmental issues. These activities not only encouraged creative thinking but also fostered a sense of responsibility and urgency among participants to address the challenges facing our planet.
In addition, after the success of three online contests, we've arranged a Debate Competition, Closing Session with Prize Giving Ceremony on 2nd April. The closing session was conducted in hybrid mode.
The debate segment of the event witnessed the active participation of eight teams, engaging in rigorous discussions on pertinent topics. One of the key debates revolved around the role of developed countries in combating climate change, with a consensus emerging on the notion that their actions often hinder global efforts towards mitigation. Additionally, the debate underscored the indispensable role of technology in halting climate change, emphasizing proactive measures over mere adaptation strategies.
The closing session was conducted in hybrid mode. We were deeply honored and privileged to have the esteemed President of SAMA, Prof. Ajit Tiyagi Sir and the honorable Secretary of SAMA, Prof Dr. Someshwar Das Sir among us, who have been the integral and invaluable part of SAMA since its inception. They graciously joined us online via Zoom and shared words of inspiration for us. It was our honor to have Honorable Dean Professor Dr. Md. Zillur Rahman, Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Dhaka present among us as the Chief Guest in closing program. Also faculties from the departments of the Facilty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Dhaka and Judges from Dhaka University Debating Society were present there for the smooth and fair evaluation of the contests.
Under the guidance and leadership of Dr. Fatina Akter, the Chairman of the Department of Meteorology and Dr. Mohon Kumar Dash, Executive Director of NOAMI, the event unfolded with remarkable enthusiasm and participation from students also played a pivotal role in orchestrating the event, ensuring its success through meticulous planning and coordination.
Furthermore, the event witnessed active participation from students representing various universities across Bangladesh. Their enthusiastic involvement and contributions more than 75 responses in online activities and 41 responses for offline activities added depth and diversity to the discussions, reflecting a collective commitment to advancing meteorological sciences and addressing environmental concerns.
In conclusion, the World Meteorology Day 2024 event organized by the Department of Meteorology at the University of Dhaka, in collaboration with NOAMI and SAMA, was a resounding success, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Dr. Fatina Akter, Dr. Mohon Kumar Dash, The student coordiantors, the countless volunteers and participants from different universities across Bangladesh. The event not only celebrated the significance of meteorology but also served as a platform for fostering innovation, dialogue, and collective action towards a sustainable future. Let us continue to work together towards a brighter, more sustainable future.