Dhaka: A discussion titled ‘Contribution of Prof. Dr Ahmad Shamsul Islam in the Development of Biotechnology in Bangladesh’ was held at the Dhaka University here today. Organized by the Bangladesh Association for Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology, the event took place at the university’s Botany department auditorium. The seminar was graced by the presence of DU Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Mamun Ahmed as the chief guest.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof. Rakhhari Sarkar of the Botany department presided over the function, highlighting the significant contributions of Prof. Ahmad Shamsul Islam in the field of biotechnology. The seminar also featured speeches from notable figures such as South-East University VC Dr. Yusuf Mahbub Islam and Prof. Zeba Islam Seraj, retired from the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology department and daughter of Dr. Ahmad Shamsul Islam. Dr. Mihir Lal Saha, Chairman of the Botany Department, also addressed the attendees.
Prof. Dr. Ahmad Shamsul Islam is widely regarded as the pioneer of ‘Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnological Research in Bangladesh.’ Throughout his illustrious career, he was honored with several prestigious awards, including the President’s Gold Medal in Agriculture in 1984, the Ekushey Padak in Education in 1986, and the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences Gold Medal in Biology in 1987. In recognition of his lifelong contributions, he received the Life Time Achievement Award by GNOBB in 2017.
Prof. Shamsul Islam served as a Professor at the Botany Department of Dhaka University until his passing. Born on August 6, 1924, he left an indelible mark on the academic and scientific community before his demise on April 14 this year.