Khulna University seminar highlights antimicrobial resistance threats facing Bangladesh’s aquaculture sector, stressing urgent research and responsible antibiotic use. Photo : BSS

KHULNA, May 18, 2026 (BSS) - Stressing the need for extensive research to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Vice-Chancellor of Khulna University (KU) Professor Dr Md Rezaul Karim on Sunday (yesterday) afternoon said AMR has emerged as a silent but serious threat to Bangladesh's aquaculture sector.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled "Antimicrobial Resistance in Bangladesh Aquaculture: Emerging Challenges, Implications and Intervention" held at the conference room of the university's central research laboratory.

Fisheries and Marine Resource Technology (FMRT) Discipline of the university and World Fish Bangladesh jointly organised the seminar.

The VC said the fisheries and shrimp sectors are closely linked to the economy, food security and export earnings of Bangladesh's coastal area.

However, the indiscriminate and unplanned use of antibiotics is gradually making bacteria in aquatic environments resistant to drugs, posing risks to disease control, production systems and the international acceptability of Bangladeshi aquatic products.

He said the crisis is not only a health issue but also an economic, environmental and social challenge.

Referring to the World Health Organization identifying AMR as one of the greatest global public health threats, he said Khulna University has been conducting research on AMR, aquatic epidemiology, biosecurity and sustainable aquaculture as part of its ongoing studies on fisheries, environment and biodiversity in coastal areas.

The university has already been working on training shrimp farmers on Good Aquaculture Practices (GAP) and biosecurity, researching the impact of antibiotics on water and sediment, and applying modern biotechnology in aquaculture management, he added.

Professor Dr Sheikh Mostafizur Rahman, head of the FMRT Discipline, chaired the seminar, while Dean of the School of Life Science Professor Dr Md Golam Hossain spoke as special guest.

Associate Professor Dr Sheikh Tarek Arafat delivered the welcome address.

Following the inaugural session, Professor Dr Md Golam Sarowar of the FMRT Discipline, Dr Shafik Rahman and Dr Sabrina Hossain of World Fish Bangladesh gave presentations.
    

The speakers highlighted the current AMR situation in Bangladesh's aquaculture sector, associated risks, possible impacts on food safety and public health, and various aspects of sustainable management.

They also underscored the importance of research, awareness and responsible use of antibiotics.