GAU, CIRDAP reach consensus to sign MoU

Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) and the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) have agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in agriculture, rural development, research, training and knowledge exchange. 

The consensus was reached on Tuesday at a meeting held in the Academic Council room of GAU. GAU Vice-Chancellor Prof GKM Mustafizur Rahman chaired the session. 

CIRDAP Director General P Chandra Shekara and the GAU vice-chancellor agreed to move forward with the proposed partnership. 

The meeting began with an introduction session, followed by a visual documentary showcasing GAU’s journey, academic and research achievements, innovations and growing international engagement. 

An open discussion then explored opportunities for joint research, training, capacity building, technology and knowledge exchange, and collaborative initiatives in agriculture and rural development. 

VC Mustafizur Rahman said, “GAU seeks to go beyond teaching and research by developing knowledge-driven solutions to the real challenges facing agriculture and rural communities. Our partnership with CIRDAP can help connect research, innovation and training with people and communities on the ground.” 

CIRDAP DG Chandra Shekara said, “We are impressed by GAU’s progress in education, research and innovation. By combining the strengths of CIRDAP and GAU, we can pursue practical and sustainable initiatives for rural development, agriculture and human resource development across the region.” 

CIRDAP Head of Human Resources and Administration FAM Zakirul Huq attended the meeting. Representing GAU were Treasurer Prof Md Safiul Islam Afrad, deans, directors, senior faculty members and Registrar Md Abdullah Mridha. Later, they visited GAU’s research field and laboratories. 

Once signed, the MoU is expected to create wider opportunities for joint research, training and workshops, student involvement in research and collaborative projects, professional development, and knowledge and experience sharing. 

The proposed partnership is seen as an important step towards expanding GAU’s national and international collaborations and translating research-based knowledge into practical solutions for agriculture and rural communities.