Dhaka:Minister of Education, Primary and Mass Education Dr. ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon has called for the development of sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural systems to address future challenges. He made this appeal during the inauguration of the 25th conference of the 'Bangladesh Society of Agronomy' at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) auditorium, where he served as the chief guest.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Milon highlighted the progress and future challenges within the agricultural sector. He noted that significant advancements have been made in agricultural production, but the future challenges extend beyond mere production increases. The sector must navigate limited resources, climate change, and evolving technologies, focusing on achieving higher yields, reducing costs, ensuring superior quality, and maintaining environmental sustainability on the same piece of land.
The Minister emphasized the importance of delivering the results of innovation and research directly to farmers. He pointed out that while scientists and researchers publish numerous papers and develop new technologies annually, it is crucial to assess how many farmers actually benefit from these innovations.
Addressing the role of agricultural universities, Dr. Milon stated that these institutions should evolve beyond being just degree-granting bodies. Instead, they should become robust hubs for innovation, solving contemporary problems, and transforming the agricultural sector comprehensively.
Dr. Milon also highlighted the growing need for a skilled workforce in operating agricultural machinery, modern irrigation technologies, and food processing. He suggested that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) can play a critical role in developing such expertise.
The conference was presided over by Dr. A K M Ruhul Amin, President of the Bangladesh Society of Agronomy. Special guests included Md. Hasan Jafir Tuhin, Chairman of the Barind Multipurpose Development Authority (BMDA), Dr. Md. Abdus Salam, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council, and Prof. Dr. Md. Abdul Alim, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Rajshahi University.