Photo : BSS

KHULNA, Feb 3, 2026 (BSS) - To strengthen research on the Sundarbans and coastal ecology, a Memorandum of understanding (Mou) was signed between Khulna University’s Institute for Integrated Studies on the Sundarbans and Coastal Ecosystems (IISSCE) and the Bangladesh Environment and Development Society (BEDS).

The signing ceremony was held on Tuesday afternoon at the treasurer’s office of the university’s Administrative Building. Khulna University Treasurer Prof Dr Md Nurunnabi and BEDS Chief Executive Md Maksudur Rahman signed the MoU on behalf of their respective sides. The MoU was subsequently exchanged between the two sides.

Among others present at the ceremony were Acting Registrar of Khulna University Prof Dr S M Mahbubur Rahman, IISSCE Director Prof Dr Md Raihan Ali, IQAC Director Prof Dr Md Mostafizur Rahman, 
Central Research Laboratory Director Prof Dr Md Enamul Kabir, Agro technology Discipline Professor Dr Sardar Shafiqul Islam, and IISSCE Associate Professor Mohammad Rokibul Hasan Siddique, along with concerned officials.

As part of the MoU, IISSCE and BEDS will work as partners in conducting research and implementing projects on climate change and its impacts, ecosystem restoration, economic development, and the lives and livelihoods of coastal communities in the Sundarbans and coastal regions. Both institutions will enhance mutual cooperation on mangrove and coastal ecosystem initiatives and jointly submit research grant applications and project proposals to national and international donor agencies.

The agreement also covers joint research and publications on climate change, sustainable livelihoods, economic development, and the impacts on the lives of people in the Sundarbans and coastal areas. 

To mainstream environmental education, faculty members, scientists, and field practitioners will jointly organize workshops, seminars, conferences, and outreach programmes.

The Mangrove Information and Research Centre established at the BEDS Dacope Field Office will jointly be used as a hub for research, training, and community-based activities. This will expand opportunities for Khulna University students and researchers to gain hands-on field experience and undertake applied research.