Agri Frontiers 2025: Youth and Technology for the Future of Farming
A seminar titled "Agri Frontiers 2025: Enhancing Youth and Technological Capabilities for Future Agriculture" was held in the capital on Friday, July 25, aiming to promote youth engagement and explore opportunities in tech-driven modern agriculture in light of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Organized by the Young Agriculture Cadre Officers Forum (YACOF), the event took place at the conference hall of the Cotton Development Board in Dhaka and was attended by over 300 agriculture cadre officers from the 38th to 43rd BCS batches.
Director General of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), agriculturist Md. Saiful Alam, attended as the chief guest. In his address, he stated, “We must harness the potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to make our agriculture more productive, modern, and sustainable. In the current global context, the effective use of technology in agriculture is the key to ensuring food security.”
He further emphasized, “To maintain agricultural productivity, officers across the country are working tirelessly in all weather conditions. Yet, it is unfortunate that these dedicated officials receive fewer facilities compared to many other cadres and often face neglect. We will take necessary steps in consultation with the relevant authorities to ensure the fair rights and benefits of agriculture officers.”
Other speakers at the seminar included retired Secretary General of the BCS (Agriculture) Association Ahmed Ali Chowdhury Iqbal, Director of the Plant Quarantine Wing Md. Abdur Rahim, Director of the Horticulture Wing S.M. Sohrab Uddin, Acting Director of the Crops Wing Dr. Md. Hazrat Ali, Additional Director of Dhaka Region Dr. Md. Zakir Hossain, Additional Director (Admin & Finance Wing) Dr. Mohammad Kazi Mojibur Rahman, Deputy Director of Pesticide Administration Md. Nure Alam Siddiqui, Deputy Director (Administration) Md. Muradul Hasan, Deputy Director of Legal & Support Services Md. Nazrul Islam, Program Coordinator of PARTNER project Abul Kalam Azad, Project Director of two agricultural training institutes in Jagannathpur and Mohanganj K.M. Badrul Haque, and Additional Deputy Director (Import) of the Plant Quarantine Wing Bani Amin Khan.
In his welcome address, YACOF General Secretary agriculturist Mainuddin Saad stated, “Agriculture today is no longer limited to fieldwork; it is a major field of research, technological innovation, and global thought. The main goal of this seminar is to raise awareness among young agriculturists about leadership, innovation, and modern technology.”
Following the welcome address, three thematic presentations were delivered focusing on generational linkage, innovation, and agricultural transformation. The discussions highlighted ways to enhance productivity through innovative technology, foster youth entrepreneurship in agriculture, and position agriculture as a key sector for commercial opportunity.
An open discussion titled “Youth and Technology in Future Agriculture” was held where agriculture cadre officers from different batches shared their experiences and visions. Participants offered insights into the challenges and potential of transforming the future of agriculture.
In his concluding remarks, YACOF President agriculturist Md. Emaz Uddin said, “This seminar is not just a one-time event, but part of an ongoing intellectual journey. We want young agriculturists to grow not only as officers but also as visionary leaders, researchers, and innovators.”
Notably, YACOF is a forum of over 800 agriculture cadre officers from the 38th, 40th, 41st, and 43rd BCS batches working across various districts and upazilas, committed to shaping the future of agriculture and advocating for the rightful demands of agriculture officers.
