Students, academics and policy advocates gathered at Gono Bishwabidyalay to discuss Bangladesh’s just energy transition, focusing on renewable energy, consumer rights, transparency and the role of youth in shaping national energy policy.
Students, academics and policy advocates gathered at Gono Bishwabidyalay in Savar for a dialogue on the Just Energy Transition policy. The event was jointly organized by the Gono Bishwabidyalay Career Development Club and the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB). Nearly a hundred students from different departments attended and shared their perspectives on national energy policy, just transition and youth involvement in sustainable energy strategies.
Speakers stressed that structural reforms are essential to build a fair and sustainable energy system. They highlighted the need to accelerate the shift to renewable energy, protect consumer rights, ensure transparency and accountability and reduce dependence on imported fuels, an issue with growing economic implications. CAB’s 13-point demand for the energy sector was also discussed, along with the importance of civic engagement and public awareness in driving a just and inclusive transition.
Among the speakers, Aritra Roddur Dhar, a student of the University of Dhaka, emphasized policy reforms and active youth participation in shaping the country’s energy future. Journalist and research coordinator at CAB Shuvo Kibria discussed transparency, accountability and protecting consumer interests. Writer, teacher and researcher Gowhar Naeem Wara called for stronger social movements and greater public engagement to ensure a just energy transition.
The event was attended by Dr Md Fazlul Karim, dean of the Faculty of Agriculture; Dr Md Fuad Hossain, associate professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; and Tania Ahmed Tanvi, assistant professor of Pharmacy. The session was chaired by Bidita Chowdhury, president of the Public University Career Development Club.
Organizers said such dialogues aim to encourage students to actively participate in national policy discussions and contribute to a transparent, sustainable and people-centered energy system in Bangladesh while aligning with global trends toward renewable and equitable energy solutions.
