The Department of Sociology at Varendra University organized a seminar titled “50 Years of Community Forestry in Bangladesh: What Have We Learned, Where Are We Now and Where Do We Go Next?” on October 12, 2026, at the university auditorium.
The keynote speaker was Professor Dr. Sharif A. Mukul, Professor and Head of the Department of Environment and Development Studies at United International University. The seminar was attended by Prof. Dr. Md. Khademul Islam Molla, the Honorable Vice-Chancellor of Varendra University as the chief guest. Prof. Dr. Munshi Israil Hossain, Coordinator of the Department of Sociology, chaired the seminar. Professor Md. Shahidur Rahman, Dean of the School of Arts and Social Sciences, and Prof. Dr. Md. Faizar Rahman, Head of the Department of Sociology, were also present at the event.
The programme began with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Munshi Israil Hossain. He welcomed the keynote speaker with a floral greeting. Following his address, the Honorable Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Md. Khademul Islam Molla delivered his speech.
The keynote speaker discussed the history and progress of community forestry in Bangladesh over the past five decades. He explained how local communities can help protect forests and biodiversity. He also discussed the challenges of forest management and the need for sustainable practices.
Professor Dr. Mukul focused the importance of involving local people in forest conservation. He also stressed the need for research and proper planning to protect forest resources for future generations.
The seminar concluded with a question-and-answer session, during which faculty members and participants shared their questions and views with the keynote speaker. Following the session, the Department of Sociology presented Professor Dr. Sharif A. Mukul with a crest of appreciation.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Dr. Munshi Israil Hossain thanked the keynote speaker, Rawnaq Ara Parvin, Convener of the seminar organizing committee, the committee members, and all participants for their contributions and cooperation in making the seminar a success. He then formally concluded the programme.
