PM launches ‘One Child, One Tree’ campaign

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged schoolchildren to plant at least one tree every year and care for it, saying the younger generation must lead efforts to build a greener and healthier Bangladesh.

He made the call on Wednesday after launching a nationwide tree plantation programme at government primary schools by planting a sapling at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon. The campaign is part of the government's 'One Child, One Tree' initiative.

Addressing students and teachers connected virtually from schools across the country, the Prime Minister encouraged children not only to plant trees but also to learn about them.

“Wherever you think a tree can be planted—whether at your school or near your home—I request every one of you to plant at least one tree every year,” he said.

He urged students to use the internet and other learning resources to discover the species of the trees they plant, how long they live, how much oxygen they produce and how they benefit people.

“You will learn something new about a tree every year. And when the trees grow, you will enjoy their shade at school after playing with your friends or the cool breeze around your home,” he said.

Calling for a nationwide greening movement, the Prime Minister said everyone should work together to protect the environment for future generations. “Let us all work together to build a greener Bangladesh.”

As part of the programme, trees were planted simultaneously at 64,587 government primary schools across the country. A total of 193,761 saplings were planted, with three trees at each participating school. Officials said 915 schools could not take part because of natural disasters.

Under the 'One Child, One Tree' initiative, government primary schools are expected to plant nearly one crore trees over the next five years.

After the inauguration, the programme highlighted a range of initiatives and innovations in primary education from all 64 districts. Exhibitions showcased school feeding, joyful learning, digital education, Foundational Learning (FLN) and other education programmes being implemented nationwide.

The Prime Minister also visited the exhibition stalls, interacted with students and praised their creativity and innovation.