More than 2,100 teachers and students of Baitush Sharaf Jabbaria Academy School and College in Cox’s Bazar received neem and drumstick (moringa) saplings as part of an environmental awareness initiative. The saplings were distributed as part of a tree-planting campaign organized by the Prothom Alo Bondhushava (Friendship Forum) in collaboration with BRAC.
The distribution event took place on Thursday afternoon in the school premises. Students pledged to plant the saplings in their home gardens and contribute to the preservation of the environment.
Before the distribution began, Abdul Kuddus Rana, Cox’s Bazar correspondent of Prothom Alo, addressed the students and said:
“Due to climate change, Cox’s Bazar is already at risk. Rising sea levels have caused coastal erosion in areas like Teknaf, Saint Martin’s Island, Kutubdia, and Maheshkhali. Even large trees on the beaches are toppling. Frequent natural disasters are occurring, and yet we continue to destroy forests and hills. This destruction harms both nature and our own health. Planting trees is no longer a choice — it’s a necessity.”
Rabiul Islam, BRAC’s regional manager in Cox’s Bazar, offered a welcome speech and emphasized the role of trees in protecting both the environment and human health.
Speaking on the medicinal and nutritional benefits of the distributed saplings, MM Sirajul Islam, Director General of Baitush Sharaf Complex, said:
“Neem is widely used in traditional medicine — its leaves, twigs, and sap help treat skin conditions, prevent dandruff, and improve digestion and immunity. Similarly, moringa (drumstick) leaves are rich in vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iron, and phosphorus. The drumstick pods are also packed with essential nutrients.”
Principal Md. Saiyad Karim of Baitush Sharaf Jabbaria Academy urged the students to plant and nurture the saplings, saying:
“Despite their immense benefits, both neem and moringa are now on the verge of disappearing. To protect our health and environment, we need to expand tree-planting efforts.”
The event was hosted by Saiful Islam, president of the Bondhushava of Cox’s Bazar City College, along with other notable members fro m city and other educational institutions.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Courtesy
