Khulna: Khulna University (KU) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Md Rezaul Karim today announced that the Institute for Integrated Studies on the Sundarbans and Coastal Ecosystems (IISSCE) has been established through long-term planning and efforts, with the aim of expanding Sundarbans-centric research.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Dr Md Rezaul Karim highlighted the Sundarbans as a national pride and a world heritage site, emphasizing the necessity of developing the institute into a “global hub” for research by adhering to international standards. He noted that various disciplines at the university, such as Forestry and Wood Technology, Environmental Science, Soil, Water and Environment, and Fisheries and Marine Resource Technology, would collaborate in multidisciplinary research efforts.
Prof Karim shared these insights at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Governors of the IISSCE, which marked the institute’s new journey. The meeting took place at the institute’s conference room, chaired by Prof Karim.
Key issues were discussed and approved during the meeting, including the initiation of master’s and certificate courses, amendments to the institute’s ordinance, approval of research programs, organization of international conferences, provision of research fellowships, and budget approval.
Prof Karim expressed optimism that the institute would significantly enhance research efforts to conserve coastal biodiversity, address climate change impacts, and achieve sustainable development goals. He also stressed the importance of strengthening collaboration with national and international researchers, development partners, and policymakers. Additionally, he urged for the application of research findings to improve the livelihoods of coastal communities.
The meeting was attended by IISSCE Director and Board Member Secretary Prof Dr Md Raihan Ali, Prof Dr Mohammad Al Amin of Chittagong University, Prof Dr Md Masudur Rahman of Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Prof Dr Md Nabiul Islam Khan, Prof Dr Md Nazmus Sadat of KU, and Associate Professor Dr Mohammad Rakibul Hasan Siddiqui of IISSCE.