The much-anticipated TigerScout Annual Camp 2025, organized by WildTeam, was inaugurated today at the WildTeam Conservation Biology Centre in Joymoni, Mongla, Bagerhat.

The event brought together young conservationists, environmental leaders, and community representatives to celebrate and strengthen youth engagement in tiger conservation. The programme is organized under the aegis of Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Programme (ITHCP) supported by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), German Cooperation and KfW Development Bank.

TigerScouts is a network of student volunteers who serve as tiger conservation ambassadors in their schools and communities. As passionate young conservationists raise awareness about wildlife protection, develop leadership skills, and take part in voluntary conservation activities.

The program was presided over by Paritosh Mistry, Headmaster of Joymoni Secondary School, where a Sundarbans Education Centre is located. This reflects the school’s continued commitment to fostering environmental education and conservation leadership among students.

Brave ancestors

As the camp is held in February, participants took a moment to pay homage to the martyrs of February 21, 1952, who sacrificed their lives for language rights. Their bravery serves as an inspiration for the TigerScouts as they take on the responsibility of protecting the Sundarbans.

The event also included a special tribute to WildTeam’s late co-founder, Professor Harunur Rashid, who passed away on November 26, 2024. A dua (prayer) was held in his memory, honoring his legacy and lifelong dedication to wildlife conservation.

Paritosh Mistry praised the TigerScouts for their commitment to protecting the Sundarbans Reserve Forest and its wildlife.

Dipon Chandro Das, Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF), Chandpai Range, Sundarbans East Forest Division, highlighted the critical role of tiger conservation in sustaining the Sundarbans and commended the TigerScouts for their efforts in raising awareness. He assured continued collaboration and involvement of TigerScouts in future conservation activities.

Delivering his speech, Chief Guest Quazi Mohammad Nurul Karim, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Sundarbans East Forest Division, expressed admiration for the passion and energy of the TigerScouts, emphasizing their potential to contribute to conservation even beyond their school years.

Professor Dr Md. Anwarul Islam, CEO, WildTeam, welcomed the participants.

The Chairman of WildTeam, Enam Ul Haque, and Founder, Enayetullah Khan, sent their best wishes for the continued success of the TigerScouts and their mission to protect the Sundarbans.