Patuakhali University of Science and Technology (PSTU) recently hosted a vital international scientific seminar focusing on climate-resilient agriculture and the bioeconomy. The event, titled "Frontier Research for a Climate-Resilient Agriculture and Bioeconomy," brought together academics, researchers, and students to discuss sustainable solutions for Bangladesh's agricultural sector.
The seminar was jointly organized by the university's Genetics and Plant Breeding, and Plant Pathology departments. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. S.M. Hemayet Jahan attended as the chief guest, with Faculty of Agriculture Dean Professor Dr. Md. Zahirul Haque presiding over the session.
Keynote speaker Professor Dr. Tofazzal Islam, Dean of Graduate Studies at Gazipur Agricultural University, emphasized that modern agricultural biotechnology, genome editing, and bioeconomy-driven innovations are essential to combat the escalating threats of climate change. He noted that the effective application of these technologies is crucial to making future agriculture more productive and climate-tolerant.
Adding practical field insights to the discussion, Dr. Md. Ashiq Iqbal Khan, Chief Scientific Officer at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) Barisal, presented the latest findings on rice blast disease, outlining new prevention strategies and sustainable crop management.
The participating experts concluded that strengthening inter-institutional collaboration and advancing bioeconomy-based research are critical steps toward ensuring national food security. The seminar served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, paving the way for future agricultural innovations in Bangladesh.
