Ensuring access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is essential for everyone and is a key component of public health. The stakeholders in the WASH sector are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in securing these fundamental human rights. To achieve this, significant efforts are necessary, and the roles of graduates and postgraduate students of technical universities awaiting to enter the professional field are very important.
To orient such groups with insights into career prospects, challenges, and research opportunities in the WASH sector, ITN-BUET organized an event titled “Orientation for Engineering Graduates on Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH)” on November 16, 2024. 52 participants, including postgraduates, recent graduates, and final-year undergraduate students from different universities, attended the event. The event highlighted the impact of climate change on WASH challenges and innovative and sustainable sanitation solutions.
The program commenced with an opening address by Mr. Alauddin Ahmed, Project Manager, ITN-BUET, who highlighted ITN-BUET’s pivotal role in capacity building and policy support in the WASH sector. He underscored ITN-BUET’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia, government, and the private sector to promote sustainable solutions for critical sanitation issues. His words set the stage for an engaging day of knowledge-sharing and discussions.
S.M. Zulkernine, Senior Environmental Specialist at the World Bank; Shahidul Islam, Sector Lead for Water at SNV Netherlands Development Organization; Md. Wali Ullah, former Chief Engineer at DPHE; and Md. Rashidul Huque, another former Chief Engineer at DPHE, were the speakers for the sessions. As knowledgeable and respected leaders in their field, they guided participants in identifying opportunities and research areas and finding ways to engage and contribute to the WASH sector as professionals.
The program included interactive Q&A sessions following each segment, encouraging active participation. Pranta Bhoumik, a participant, asked an insightful question regarding how to tackle greenhouse effects. Another participant, Rakib Hasan, inquired about startup opportunities in the WASH sector. The engaging discussions enhanced the participants’ understanding and interest to be associated with the WASH sector.
The event concluded with a thanks giving speech by Mr. Alauddin Ahmed, who commended the participants for their enthusiasm. Certificates of participation were given to all attendees.
