Bangladesh Pushes Tech Against Mosquitoes

There is no single effective method to control mosquito-borne diseases, Science and Technology Ministry Secretary Md. Anwar Hossain said, stressing that such diseases can only be brought under effective control through coordinated, multi-pronged initiatives. He said research, technological innovation, and coordinated cooperation among all relevant stakeholders are essential to achieving this goal. He made the remarks as chief guest at an inter-ministerial meeting held Wednesday at the Science and Technology Ministry's conference room in the Bangladesh Secretariat, convened to review a showcasing session on mosquito-control research and technology innovation.

The secretary further said strong commitment, dedication, and goal-oriented action plans from researchers are essential to achieving success in research, adding that setting a clear scientific objective for research makes it possible to obtain realistic and effective results. He called for the development of modern, innovative technologies to ensure effective intervention at various stages of the mosquito life cycle, while also emphasizing the need to screen promising research-based technologies and test them in the field through phased pilot projects.

Researchers and experts attending the meeting shared views on the need to adopt a multi-approach strategy for controlling mosquito-borne diseases. The session featured PowerPoint presentations and detailed discussions on potential new technologies, research progress, and innovative ideas for effective mosquito control.

The meeting was attended by Muhammad Ashraf Ali Faruk, additional secretary of the Science and Technology Ministry, along with professors and researchers from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, ICDDR,B, and IEDCR. Expatriate Bangladeshi researcher Dr. Murshida Khan joined virtually from Australia. Representatives from the Local Government Division and the Dhaka North and Dhaka South City Corporations were also present.

Earlier, at a meeting on the Bangla QR payment system, the Secretary called on everyone to become active in using Bangla QR. He said that even if Visa or Mastercard were to shut down for any global reason, there would be no obstacle to international transactions through Bangla QR. The Secretary also expressed optimism that this indigenous technology would soon be integrated into all fintech platforms. At this meeting, Additional Director of Bangladesh Bank Md. Rashed delivered a presentation on Bangla QR.

//DBTech/MAAM/SMI//