By Gunjon Rema, from Kalmakanda, Netrakona
“Youth Power: Guardians of Tradition, Builders of the Future.” National youth day was observed recently at Bogadubi village of Kalmakanda upazila. The day was jointly organized by Green Coalition, Pluralistic Society, and BARCIK. This year’s theme was “Youth for Peace, Prosperity, and Sustainability.”
The celebration began with a colorful rally featuring festoons, posters, and slogans reflecting the theme, parading through the village. Afterwards, a lively discussion session was held, moderated by Alpana Nafak and presided over by Moumita Hajong, an indigenous youth representative who has recently enrolled in university.
Highlighting the purpose and importance of Youth Day, BARCIK’s Upazila Coordinator Gunjon Rema said, “Youth are the driving force of change. If they preserve indigenous knowledge, stand for land rights, lead in addressing the climate crisis, and ensure food sovereignty, only then can we build a just and sustainable society.”
Lakhi Hajong, president of the women’s organization Dip Shikha, said: “Youths play an invaluable role in traditional farming, conserving local seeds, practicing chemical-free agriculture, and protecting natural resources.”
Moumita Hajong said: “This day reminds us that youth power is not just the hope for the future but also the driving force of change in the present. Together, we will work to make this theme a reality.”
One of the youth participants, Abhishek Hajong, said: “We want our culture, land, and environment to be protected. For this cause, we will work together in unity.”
