Bangladesh: Fruit Festival Inspires Environmental Awareness Among School Children

Doripara St. Francis Xavier Primary School, located on the outskirts of Dhaka, hosted a Fruit Festival on July 8, bringing together students, teachers, and parents for a joyful celebration of nature and learning.

The event aimed to educate students about a wide variety of fruits, both local and international, while fostering environmental awareness and emphasizing the importance of tree plantation. Colorful displays, interactive discussions, and an exhibition of seasonal fruits were key highlights of the program.

Fr. Stanislaus Gomes, parish priest and chief guest of the program, inaugurated the festival with an encouraging message. “Education must go hand in hand with environmental responsibility,” he said. “Through this festival, we want our students to become more connected with nature and understand the significance of fruit-bearing trees in our ecosystem.”

He also stressed the vital role of afforestation in combating climate change, urging everyone to actively participate in tree planting to keep the Earth green and healthy.

Sister Mary Sheuly Purification, SMRA, the key organizer of the event, said, “The students were excited and thoughtful. They are already planning where to plant their trees and are looking forward to the day they can enjoy the fruits.”

Students’ enthusiasm was evident. One remarked, “Trees give us oxygen and fruits; we need to plant more trees and protect our environment.”

In Bangladesh, where forest cover remains below the ideal 25%, currently at just 16%, initiatives like this festival serve as timely reminders of the country’s ecological challenges. Community and school-led efforts in promoting tree planting are seen as essential steps toward restoring environmental balance.

The Fruit Festival concluded with enthusiastic participation from students, parents, and teachers, blending learning, fun, and a powerful message of environmental stewardship.