Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Jan 24, 2026 (BSS) - A three-day international conference on Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology began today at Dhaka University (DU).

DU Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed inaugurated the event at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building this morning.

The Department of Botany and the Bangladesh Association for Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology (BAPTC&B) are jointly organizing the conference.

Speaking as the chief guest, Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed stressed the importance of using smart biotechnology and industrialized biotechnology to address the dual challenges of ensuring food security and protecting the environment.

Highlighting plans to enhance the quality of research at the university, the Pro-VC said initiatives have been taken to establish artificial intelligence (AI) systems and a data centre at Dhaka University. 

"The objective is to support researchers and scientists in enhancing their skills through modern technology, enabling data-driven decision-making and optimal use of resources," he added.

The inaugural session was presided over by BAPTC&B President Professor Dr. Rakhari Sarkar. 

Director General of the National Institute of Biotechnology Dr. Md. Sagir Ahmed and DU Biological Sciences faculty's dean Professor Dr. Md. Enamul Haque spoke at the event as special guests. 

Fellow Professor of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences Dr. Hasina Khan presented the keynote paper while BAPTC&B General Secretary Professor Dr. Muhammad Nurul Islam delivered the welcome speech.