International Conference on 'Regenerative Agriculture' Kicks Off at GAKU for Sustainable Food Security

A two-day international conference titled “Regenerative Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security” has begun at Gazipur Agricultural University (GAKU).

The first-of-its-kind event at GAKU aims to foster a global synergy of research, experience, and innovation to create a roadmap for achieving sustainable food security through regenerative agriculture and international research collaboration.

Inaugural Ceremony held on Friday at the university’s Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium, presided over by GAKU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. GKM Mostafizur Rahman.

Chief Guest was Emeritus Professor Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Special Assistant to the Chief Advisor and Special Guest Dr. Stephen Mann, Head of Agroscope, Switzerland.

The conference drew 1,200 registered researchers, turning the event into a "global knowledge fair." Participants included GAKU academics and students, foreign scientists (from Pakistan, Ethiopia, Switzerland, Nigeria), Vice-Chancellors of other universities, and representatives from government and private research institutions.

Professor Dr. Wajid Nasim Yatai from Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan, presented the keynote paper. He emphasized the global context of regenerative agriculture and the importance of integrated steps in restoring soil health for future food security.

The chief guest and special guest stressed the critical need for mutual cooperation, information exchange, and joint action plans among international and local researchers to build a sustainable food system.

In his closing speech, VC Dr. Rahman emphasized the conference as a "unique bridge of global cooperation and humanitarian responsibility," stating that saving the soil and ensuring safe food requires collective efforts.

On the first day, 10 cutting-edge research papers were presented in 10 thematic areas, covering vital contemporary issues such as combating climate change, regenerative farming, digital agriculture, and food production sustainability.

The abstract book of the conference was unveiled. Renowned government and private companies set up stalls to display, introduce, and sell their traditional and innovative products, which were visited by the VC and guests. The second day will feature 10 more presentations, along with awards for best oral flash, poster presentation, and report summaries.