Dhaka: Education Advisor Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar emphasized today the urgent need for the country to adopt a biotechnology-driven approach to address significant challenges in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. He was speaking at the inaugural session of the 6th International Conference on Biotechnology in Health and Agriculture (ICBHA-2025) in the capital, as announced in a press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the two-day conference is organized by the Global Network of Bangladeshi Biotechnologists (GNBB) in collaboration with Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University. The event, which also commemorates the 20th anniversary of GNBB's global activities, is being held under the theme "Addressing Environmental Challenges for Sustainable Health and Agriculture."
Prof Abrar stated, "We are standing at the threshold of a biotechnology revolution. Now is the time to seize this opportunity." He highlighted the severe threats posed by climate change and environmental degradation to health, food security, and sustainability, advocating for biotechnology as a viable solution in the health and agriculture sectors.
In his address, Prof Abrar explained the interconnectedness of healthcare and agriculture, as well as food security and environmental sustainability, stating, "This interconnection will guide our path forward." He cited Bangladesh's successes in developing high-yield and resilient rice varieties, local production of COVID-19 test kits, and the use of microbial technology in waste management as inspiring examples for future advancements.
Looking ahead, Prof Abrar proposed the establishment of a National Biotech Innovation Institute, to be managed by domestic and expatriate Bangladeshi scientists. This institute aims to bridge academia and industry, create employment, and transform Bangladesh into a biotechnology hub in South Asia. Additionally, he called for the creation of a National Biotech Data Bank to preserve high-quality data, ranging from clinical records to plant and animal genome information.
"Science must be aligned with good governance, innovation with an inclusive approach, and policy with commitment," Prof Abrar asserted. He added that the conference serves not only as a gathering of scientists but also as a call to action for all stakeholders, including government, academia, industry, and civil society. Abdul Auwal Mintu, CEO of Multimedia Group Bangladesh, attended the event as a special guest.