Chittagong: The Satellite Ocean Observation and Data Innovation Center, the country’s first satellite-based ocean data center, was inaugurated at Chittagong University today. State Minister for Land and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin inaugurated the center as the chief guest and highlighted its importance in supporting marine resource management, climate research, fisheries development, and disaster preparedness.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the State Minister emphasized that the center would empower Bangladesh to independently collect and manage ocean-related data. “Previously, others collected data and information from us. Now, we have gained an opportunity to collect and manage data ourselves,” he stated. The State Minister expressed hope that researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders would utilize the information generated by the center for the welfare of the people and the country’s development.
He further noted that the data and information produced by the center would be beneficial both on land and at sea, particularly for sailors, fishermen, and those involved in the shipping and fisheries sectors. Assuring necessary support for the facility, he mentioned that efforts would be made to provide uninterrupted electricity and high-speed internet to ensure its smooth operation.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable figures including UGC Chairman Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed, UGC Member Prof. Dr. Mohammad Ayub Islam, CU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mohammad Al-Forkan, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh Li Shaopeng, Deputy Director of the Second Institute of Oceanography Prof. Dr. Fu Bin, and Center Director Prof. Dr. Mohammad Muslem Uddin.
Established under China-Bangladesh cooperation, the center is poised to play a significant role in advancing marine research, sustainable resource management, and early warning systems for natural disasters.