BAEC, Everlast Sign Mineral Sand MoU

Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) and Everlast Minerals Limited (EML) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance research on the country’s mineral sand resources. The partnership will focus on scientific assessment, industrial research, knowledge sharing and technology transfer.

The MoU was signed on Tuesday, September 8, at the conference room of the Ministry of Science and Technology in Dhaka. BAEC Chairman Dr M Moinul Islam and Everlast Minerals Managing Director Delwar Hossain Titu signed the document for their respective organisations. Science and Technology Ministry Secretary Md Anwar Hossain attended the event as the chief guest.

Under the agreement, the two organisations will conduct joint research for the development of the mineral sand industry. They will collect samples from rivers and coastal islands in the southern region. Special focus will be given to areas in Bhola, Patuakhali and Noakhali.

The samples will undergo physical and chemical analysis. The research will assess the quality, composition and industrial potential of mineral sands.

Speaking at the event, Science and Technology Ministry Secretary Md Anwar Hossain said effective partnerships between public research institutions and the private sector are essential for scientific exploration and technology-based use of natural resources.

He said the MoU creates an important foundation for scientific assessment of mineral sand resources. It will also support technology development and industrial usability studies. He expects the initiative to contribute to industrialisation and socio-economic development.

The Institute of Nuclear Geological Sciences (INGS) will implement the field and laboratory activities for BAEC. The commission will analyse collected sand samples using its own facilities.

Everlast will provide a modern hydraulic core drill rig and vessels when required for field operations. The company will also cover necessary travel expenses for the field teams of both organisations.

The joint research will cover mineralogy, geochemistry and metallurgy. It will also include targeted mineral sampling, mineral separation, sand quality and composition analysis, upgrading technology and industrial usability assessment.

The agreement also allows BAEC representatives to visit Everlast’s exploration and mining projects and mineral sand processing plant. Laboratory facilities and other research resources may also be used through mutual agreement.

The initial term of the MoU is three years. It may be renewed for another period with written consent from both parties. The agreement is not a commercial contract. It does not aim to provide direct financial benefits to either party.

Its main objective is to strengthen research and development in Bangladesh’s mineral sand sector and support wider socio-economic development.

Additional Secretary Abul Khayer Mohammad Akkas Ali, Joint Secretary Sheikh Mohammad Towhidul Islam, BAEC Planning and Development Director Dr Md Mostafizur Rahman and INGS Director Dr Md Golam Rasul attended the ceremony.

Everlast Minerals Senior Consultant Md Khairul Islam and General Manager Md Baharul Alam Biswas were also present, along with other officials from both organisations.
//DBTech/MAMST/SME/MIST//