Scientific research, innovation key to sustainable agriculture: Prof Baset Mia

President of the Bangladesh Society of Plant Science and Technology (BSPST) Professor Dr MA Baset Mia has said scientific research and technological innovation are indispensable to ensuring sustainable agriculture and food security in the face of climate change and emerging global challenges.

He made the remarks while presiding over the 5th International Conference of BSPST, held at Sylhet Agricultural University on 29-30 October.

Around 350 scientists, researchers, academics and students from 12 countries attended the two-day conference, jointly organised by BSPST and the university's Faculty of Agriculture. The theme was “Plant Science and Technology for Sustainable Agriculture: Challenges and Opportunities.”

In his address, Prof Baset Mia highlighted the transformative potential of biotechnology, genome editing, artificial intelligence and digital technologies in developing climate-resilient agriculture.

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He also called for stronger collaboration among universities, research institutions and industry to translate scientific discoveries into practical agricultural solutions.

Professor Dr Mohummed Shofi Ullah Mazumder, vice-chancellor of Sylhet Agricultural University, was the chief patron. Professor Dr Masuma Habib, member of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh, attended as the chief guest, while Professor Dr Md Mozammel Haque was a special guest.

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Amir Hamza Ahmad Ghazali, dean of the Institute of Biological Sciences at Universiti Sains Malaysia. Dr Mohammad Shafique Shaheed of Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, participated as an invited speaker in a technical session.

The conference featured 20 technical sessions on plant science, agricultural biotechnology, genomics, climate-resilient crops, biodiversity conservation and sustainable food production. Six distinguished scientists were honoured for their outstanding contributions to plant science and agricultural research.

The conference concluded with a renewed call for international research collaboration and innovation to advance sustainable agriculture and strengthen global food security.