Focus on sectoral studies to drive export diversification and the blue economy
Science Secretary Urges Connecting Academic Research with Commercial Markets
Speaking at a two-day fellowship seminar in Dhaka, Science and Technology Secretary Md. Anwar Hossain emphasized utilizing research outcomes to boost the national economy.
Science and Technology Ministry Secretary Md. Anwar Hossain stated that leveraging technology effectively is the most significant opportunity to move Bangladesh forward.
He made these remarks on Sunday (June 21) while addressing the inaugural session of a two-day seminar titled "Evaluation of Research Progress and Knowledge Earned by Fellows of Science and Technology Fellowship Trust" at the National Science and Technology Complex in Agargaon, Dhaka.
The Secretary noted that Bangladesh must utilize its 65 percent youth population for innovation. While Artificial Intelligence (AI) can suggest alternatives, final decisions rely on human intellect. He stressed that the primary objective of the ministry is to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial markets to uplift public living standards.
The Secretary highlighted that around 85 percent of national exports depend on the ready-made garments sector. To ensure export diversification, scientists need to conduct quality-driven research to develop competitive products for the global market.
During the seminar, Dr. Abu Hena Muhammad Yusuf, Associate Professor of Oceanography at Dhaka University, presented a paper on sustainable ocean governance in the Bay of Bengal, recommending a centralized data infrastructure and a stronger Blue Economy cell.
The seminar was chaired by A.K.M. Shaukat Alam Majumder, CEO of the Fellowship Trust, with BCSIR Chairman Dr. Samina Ahmed attending as the special guest.
//DBTech/MAAM/SI//
