The Bangladesh National Commission for UNESCO (BNCU), in collaboration with UNESCO Dhaka, organized a day-long workshop titled “Youth Engagement in UNESCO: Priorities and Opportunities” on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. The event took place in the International Conference Room of the International Mother Language Institute.

Representing the AIUB Environment Club, two CSE students—Lamia Nur (ID: 22-46920-1) and Md. Farhan Shahria Arik (ID: 24-59843-3)—actively participated in the workshop.

The program convened youth organizations, university students, young professionals, and educators to explore UNESCO’s youth-centric policies, initiatives, and global engagement platforms.

Distinguished Speakers and Guests:

• Dr. Susan Vize, Head of Office and Country Representative, UNESCO Dhaka
• Ms. Nuzhat Yasmin, Additional Secretary, SHED, Ministry of Education
• Ms. Zubaida Mannan, Deputy Secretary General, BNCU
• Youth Leaders: Sadia Jafrin (CEO, GYRF) and Rokaiya Ahmed Purna (Founder, Design in Bangladesh)

Key Themes Covered:

The initial session focused on the following areas:

• Student health and well-being (HPS & SEW)
• Digital empowerment and media literacy
• Cultural heritage and diversity
• Youth civic engagement and voice
• Science, technology, and innovation
• Career development, internships, and volunteerism
• UNESCO’s global youth networks: WH, MAB, YOUCAN, and the Global Youth Hub

A notable feature of the workshop was the Youth as Researchers (YAR) program, which showcased impactful youth-led research in mental health, indigenous communities, climate change, and intercultural dialogue for sustainable development.The event concluded with interactive sessions, including youth experience-sharing, dynamic group discussions, and a collective reaffirmation of UNESCO’s mission to empower young people as catalysts for global change.