Rajshahi:Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood today emphasized harnessing the innovative ideas and technological capabilities of young people across Bangladesh to achieve self-reliance.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Iqbal Hassan highlighted the importance of utilizing the excellence and potential of the country's brilliant students for innovation and technological advancement. He shared these views while addressing the exhibition and evaluation program of the Rajshahi divisional round of the national science and technology competition titled 'In Search of Future Scientists,' held at the Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Medical College ground.
The minister urged for proper management and coordination to advance the country, stating that everyone must demonstrate responsibility to overcome the misrule and economic irregularities of the past 17 years. He referenced Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's emphasis on domestic production and agriculture, noting that Ziaur Rahman prioritized agriculture to achieve self-sufficiency in food.
Iqbal Hassan also advocated for the use of artificial intelligence to boost productivity, ensure product quality control, and improve production processes. He pointed out the shortage of budgetary allocations for research and development, calling for an increase in research budgets and investment by capable institutions.
The event, organized by the Ziaur Rahman Foundation, featured students from various educational institutions in the Rajshahi division, who participated with their science- and technology-based projects. The exhibition began in the morning, and prizes were distributed among the winners in the afternoon. Notable attendees included BNP Acting Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi and BNP Standing Committee Member Professor Dr. Farhad Halim Donar.