Nuclear Technology Is a Long Term Investment in Bangladesh’s Future: Minister
Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam has said that Bangladesh’s investment in nuclear technology is not limited to electricity generation; rather, it is a strategic investment aimed at ensuring national development, innovation, and long-term public welfare.
He made the remarks on Friday at a high-level roundtable discussion titled “Nuclear Energy: Strategy, Realities and Bangladesh’s Path Forward” held in Ishwardi, Pabna. The event was jointly organized by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency.
At the seminar, presentations on nuclear power development were delivered by Dr. M. Moinul Islam and Brigadier Robayet.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, the minister said that a successful nuclear program requires much more than infrastructure and technology. It depends on skilled human resources, strong institutions, an effective regulatory framework, accountability, transparency, and a robust safety culture.
He noted that Bangladesh achieved a historic milestone in the use of nuclear technology through the fuel-loading ceremony at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant on April 28. According to him, the achievement reflects the country’s scientific capabilities and long-term development vision.
The minister stated that once fully operational, the plant will add approximately 2,400 megawatts of electricity to the national grid, making a significant contribution to energy security and economic growth.
However, he emphasized that the importance of nuclear technology extends well beyond electricity generation. Its applications in healthcare, disease diagnosis and treatment, agricultural innovation, food security, water management, environmental monitoring, and scientific research are equally significant.
Fakir Mahbub Anam expressed optimism that around 300 megawatts of electricity from the plant’s first unit could be connected to the national grid by the end of August. He also outlined plans to complete nuclear fuel loading for the second unit by April 2027.
Calling for greater investment in nuclear science and engineering education, the minister urged universities, research institutions, and training centers to strengthen capacity-building initiatives in the sector. He described nuclear technology as strategically important for Bangladesh’s long-term energy security and technological advancement.
He further highlighted that nuclear power provides reliable, large-scale, low-carbon electricity around the clock and is not dependent on weather conditions, unlike many other energy sources. As a result, it strengthens energy security, supports industrial growth, and contributes to environmental sustainability.
“Nuclear energy is not only about generating electricity,” he said. “It is about strengthening our confidence in science, enhancing technological capabilities, investing in people, and creating opportunities for future generations. It is about ensuring that Bangladesh continues its journey as a prosperous, innovative, resilient, and knowledge-based nation.”
The minister added that the roundtable discussion would help strengthen Bangladesh’s nuclear governance and long-term preparedness by creating a platform for policymakers, regulators, scientists, industry leaders, media professionals, and development partners to exchange ideas and shape future strategies.
The session was chaired by Md. Anwar Hossain. Among others, speeches were delivered by Abu Taleb Mondal, Advocate Selim Reza Habib, Habibur Rahman Habib, and Shawkat Aziz Russell.
A keynote address was also delivered by Mehmet Ceyhan.
The seminar was attended by senior government officials, Dr. Md. Kabir Hossain, academics, industry representatives, media professionals, civil society members, development partners, and Hasan Mohammad Shoaib.
//DBTech/AAM/MI/OR//
