Pabna University of Science and Technology (PUST), a recently established public university in the country, has initiated an ambitious project to transform its campus into a green environment despite facing space constraints.
The 30-acre campus primarily consists of academic and administrative structures. Nevertheless, university officials are utilizing all available open areas for tree planting as part of their endeavor to create a sustainable “green campus”.
Reports from the university indicate that approximately 1,200 saplings of 250 unique plant species have been cultivated throughout the campus in the past half-year.
Faruk Hossain Chowdhury, the additional director responsible for public relations at PUST, mentioned that the tree planting initiative commenced in May with the aim of showcasing the university’s natural essence and fostering a more eco-friendly atmosphere. The assortment of saplings includes various types such as fruit-bearing, forest, medicinal, and decorative trees.
A specialized committee consisting of six members, comprising educators and technical specialists, is supervising the plantation project under the guidance of Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md Nazrul Islam.
University officials have disclosed that the campus has been sectioned into 1,200 designated planting zones, each hosting a single sapling. At the onset of the rainy season, eight cubic feet of soil were cleared from each zone, followed by the excavation of 2×2×2 feet pits. The soil was then conditioned for a month using a blend of cow dung and loamy earth before the actual planting took place.
Professor Nazrul highlighted that the primary objectives of the scheme encompass greening the campus, enhancing aesthetics, and conserving biodiversity.
“Pabna Science and Technology University will witness the establishment of a serene natural setting through this green afforestation,” he remarked.
He further emphasized that numerous endangered tree species, gradually disappearing from the region, have been meticulously planted with special attention and dedication.
The species incorporated in the program include Dhup, Uriam, Madhumalati, Haparmali, Kanaidinga, Banshpatta, Nagalingam, Rakton, Chikrashi, Bola, Tamal, Naichicha Udul, Bailam, Punnag, Kusum, Kurchi, Muchkunda Champa, Palam, Raktraga, Karanja, Parashpipul, Krishnabat, Palak Jui, Bridhanarikel, Neel Anjan, Rayna, Ritha, Kumbhi, Ansphal, and Putranjeev.
The Pro-VC anticipates the campus to be completely verdant by the middle of the upcoming monsoon season.
Financial backing for the tree planting initiative has been extended by Pubali Bank and Janata Bank in conjunction with the university’s efforts.
“Our aspirations, capabilities, and advancement will flourish alongside the tree saplings. They will instill in us the values of nurturing, care, and accountability,” expressed Hossain Ahmed, a postgraduate student at the university.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. S Abdul Awal articulated that the university’s vision is to strike a balance between green spaces and infrastructure.
“Our strategy is to interlace greenery with concrete structures. This approach will not only yield environmental advantages but also bolster education by augmenting students’ intellectual and creative capacities,” he stated.