Photo: BSS

KHULNA, Aug 25, 2026 (BSS) - A programme marking National Fisheries Fortnight-2026 was held at Khulna Agricultural University (KAU) today, featuring fish fry release, a rally and a discussion on sustainable fisheries resource management.

The programme was organised by the Faculty of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences of KAU at the university's Temporary Campus-1 under the theme "A Self-Reliant Country through Silver Fish".

Speakers at the discussion stressed the need for planned and science-based release of fish fry to conserve native fish species, restore fisheries resources in open water bodies and increase fish production.

Vice-Chancellor (VC) of KAU Professor Dr Md Asaduzzaman Sarker attended the discussion as the chief guest.

He said proper application of research-based knowledge and modern technologies was essential for conserving fisheries resources and increasing production.

"Fish fry release alone is not enough to make the programme successful. It requires conservation of aquatic ecosystems, ensuring water quality, selecting suitable species and regular monitoring of the growth and survival of released fish," he said.

The VC also emphasised taking research findings from the university to the grassroots level so that fish farmers, fishermen and entrepreneurs can benefit from them.

He called for stronger coordination among universities, the Department of Fisheries, fisheries research organisations, industries and local communities to ensure sustainable development of the fisheries sector.

University Treasurer Prof Dr Shamim Ahmed Kamal Uddin Khan, Khulna District Fisheries Officer Md Badruzzaman and Chief Scientific Officer and Head of the Paikgacha-based Brackish water Centre of Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute Dr Azhar Ali attended the programme as special guests.

Dr Md Mehedi Alam, representative of the Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, chaired the discussion.

Teachers, students, officials of the university and people associated with the fisheries sector participated in the programme.

The speakers called upon all stakeholders to work together to conserve fisheries resources, protect native fish species and boost production through modern, scientific and sustainable fisheries management.