The inaugural session of the 3rd youth forum on Agricultural Biotechnologyhas held at North South University (NSU), jointly organized by NSU, OIC-COMSTECH, and the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS). The event brought together eminent policymakers, academics, and representatives from international organizations to highlight the importance of biotechnology in addressing global food security challenges, a press release said.
The program featured distinguished guests including Chief Guest Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Advisor, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of Bangladesh; Special Guest M.A. Kashem, Member, Board of Trustees, NSU; Special Guest M. Aziz Al Kaiser, Chairman, Board of Trustees, NSU; Special Guest Benajir Ahmed, Member, Board of Trustees, NSU; Special Guest. Yeasmin Kamal, Member, Board of Trustees, NSU; Special AddressH.E. Ambassador KhusravNoziri, Assistant Director-General of IOFS; Guest of HonorProf. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of OIC-COMSTECH; Prof. Dr. Hafizur Rahman, COMSTECH Focal Person for Bangladesh; Session Chair Prof. Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of NSU; and Prof. Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer and Pro-Vice Chancellor (In-Charge) of NSU.
The program began with the recitation from the Holy Qur’an, the national anthem, followed by a presentation showcasing NSU’s achievements and global partnerships.
Delivering the welcome address, Prof. Dr. Hafizur Rahman, COMSTECH Focal Person for Bangladesh, said, “Biotechnology can reshape the way we tackle agricultural and nutritional challenges. Our youth must take ownership of this journey and transform knowledge into practical solutions for humanity.”
Chief Guest Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Advisor to the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Science and Technology, highlighted the national perspective. “Bangladesh has achieved food self-sufficiency, and I must thank our genome scientists for this success. Biotechnology will play a pivotal role in enhancing nutrition, resilience, and productivity in agriculture. We must further increase investment in education and research in these sectors and promote adaptive technologies to secure our agricultural future.”
In his Special remarks, H.E. Ambassador KhusravNoziri, Assistant Director-General of IOFS, emphasized the importance of cooperation among nations. He said,“Food security is a collective challenge that demands global cooperation. This forum enables young scientists to share knowledge and build networks. Our priority must be a sustainable and secure food system, and genome technology should be applied safely, transparently, and ethically to gain public trust.”
Guest of HonorProf. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of OIC-COMSTECH, noted the transformative role of science in agriculture. “Here we begin a new chapter of collaboration. Food security is a major challenge, and we are addressing it through science and technology. The future of food security lies in empowering our youth with the right tools and opportunities.”
Special Guest Aziz Al Kaiser, Chairman of NSU’s Board of Trustees, expressed optimism about the future. He said, “Agriculture has always been the backbone of human civilization, and today biotechnology provides new pathways for food security. Through innovation, we can create sustainable solutions for farmers and ensure long-term food stability. This forum is not just academic—it reflects NSU’s commitment to excellence in education and research. We can provide the platform and guidance, but it is the young researchers who will tackle these challenges.”
As the Special Guest, M.A. Kashem, Member of NSU’s Board of Trustees, reflected on NSU’s vision. He remarks, “NSU was established with a dream to reach moments like this. Today, we focus on education, research, and collaboration. We aim to create a platform that drives innovation, promotes research, and advances agricultural development.”
Special Guest Benajir Ahmed, Member of NSU’s Board of Trustees, emphasized the potential of collective action. “We have the resources and manpower to make a difference. I urge the OIC to prioritize initiatives for the Muslim community, particularly in agriculture, biotechnology, and food security, so that science and innovation can drive sustainable development across our region.”
Chairing the session, Prof. Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of NSU, remarked, “We must ensure that the food for future generations is safe and sustainable. Genome editing is a powerful tool, and in a gene-driven world, it will shape the future. This forum demonstrates the value of knowledge-sharing. By engaging students and young researchers, we are nurturing a generation ready to address the critical challenges of food security.”
The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer and Pro-Vice Chancellor (In-Charge) of NSU, who remarked, “Saturday’s dialogue has set the tone for meaningful collaboration. Together, academia and international organizations can pave the way for a food-secure future.”
The inaugural session ended with a group photo and networking opportunity, reflecting the spirit of collaboration and innovation that defined the event.This two-day program (13 & 14 September 2025) will feature multiple technical sessions with speakers from Turkey, Malaysia, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, and other countries, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and international collaboration in agricultural biotechnology.
