Education Adviser Professor CR  Abrar on Friday called for embracing  biotechnology as a solution to the challenges of climate change, food security and public health.

He was speaking at the opening of the 6th International Conference on Biotechnology in Health and Agriculture (ICBHA-2025), organised by the Global Network of Bangladesh Biotechnologists (GNOBB) in association with Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University. 

The two-day event, held under the theme Environmental Challenges and Mitigation for Sustainable Health and Agriculture,” also marks 20 years of GNOBB’s global networking of Bangladeshi biotechnologists.

Prof Abrar stressed the interconnection between health, agriculture, and the environment, saying these must guide Bangladesh’s journey towards biotechnology-driven solutions. 

Citing success stories, the adviser highlighted high-yield, stress-tolerant rice varieties, locally produced COVID-19 diagnostic kits, and microbial technology in waste management as examples of the country’s potential.

He proposed setting up a National Institute for Biotech Innovation, jointly governed by local and non-resident Bangladeshi scientists, to link academia and industry, create jobs, and position Bangladesh as a regional biotech hub. 

He also recommended establishing a National Biotech Data Bank to secure standardised clinical and genomic information on plants and animals.

Prof Abrar concluded that science must be combined with good governance, innovation with inclusiveness, and policy with promise, calling on government, academia, industry, and civil society to act together.