By Md. Nazrul Islam from Manikganj
A day away from routine work and professional pressures brought together colleagues from BARCIK’s Manikganj Plainland and Shyamnagar regional teams for a refreshing team-building trip on 21 September 2026. The group visited the Akashlina and Kalagachia eco-tourism centres near the Sundarbans in Shyamnagar, Satkhira.
The day began at the BARCIK Shyamnagar Resource Centre, where colleagues shared breakfast before receiving a warm welcome and orientation from the eco-tourism team. A walk along the wooden trail and suspension bridge at Akashlina offered an opportunity to observe the diverse mangrove vegetation. The group also enjoyed panoramic views from the watchtower and captured memorable moments through photographs.
The second part of the trip involved a boat journey along the Malancha River to Kalagachia. Singing, conversation and laughter made the journey particularly enjoyable. At Kalagachia, the team observed deer and monkeys while following forest guidelines and refraining from feeding the wildlife.
In the afternoon, the group visited Datinakhali Munda Para and observed the traditional Karam Puja of the Indigenous Munda community. Indigenous women leader Anandita Munda shared stories of the community’s traditions and struggles, providing the visitors with a meaningful cultural experience.
The day concluded with dinner and an informal singing session at the BARCIK Resource Centre. Beyond enjoying the natural beauty of the Sundarbans, the trip strengthened friendship and team bonding between the two regional teams, leaving participants with renewed energy for their work.