Food Secretary Md. Masudul Hasan on Sunday emphasised that research must not only identify problems but also offer solutions, stressing that public funds are being used for research, and thus public welfare should remain the priority.
He made the remarks at a seminar titled "Briefing on Research Projects Undertaken in FY 2024-25 and Cheque Distribution Ceremony", organised by the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA) at its headquarters in the capital.
Chaired by BFSA Chairman Zakaria (Additional Secretary), the event featured Food Secretary Md. Masudul Hasan as the chief guest, and additional secretary Shah Abdul Alim as the special guest. Among others present were Dr. Mohammad Mostafa, BFSA Member (Public Health & Nutrition), Prof. Dr. Mohammad Shoeb (BFSA Member), and Dr. Shakila Nargis Khan, chairperson of Microbiology Department at the University of Dhaka.
The FY 2024–25 cycle awarded 10 research projects to scholars from various institutions, including Dr. Md. Javed H. Khan (Jashore University of Science and Technology), PSO of BCSIR
Md. Alamgir Kabir and Dr. Md. Ahedul Akbar, Prof. Md. Mofizur Rahman (Islamic University), Prof. Farhadus Altaf Hossain (Sylhet Agricultural University), Prof. Dr. Md. Nurul Islam (University of Dhaka), Prof. Dr. Md. Ariful Islam (Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University), Prof. Dr. Md. Atiar Rahman (University of Chittagong), and Prof. Md. Mostafizur Rahman (Jahangirnagar University).
According to BFSA, it began providing research grants in FY 2022–23. Since then, 7 projects were awarded in 2022–23, 9 in 2023–24, and another 10 in the current fiscal year. Out of 110 proposals received this year, 10 were selected after a three-stage screening process. A total of TK 1.20 crore has been allocated for these projects.
"Non-communicable diseases are often linked to food. We need to focus on such areas and ensure research benefits the public," said the secretary. He also addressed the importance of food waste management.
Speaking at the event, additional secretary Shah Abdul Alim said, “We rank among the top globally when it comes to food adulteration. Due to the mismanagement by segments of the business community, we are becoming a self-destructive nation.”
He also expressed hope for increased budget allocation for research and praised BFSA’s role in shaping a healthier future generation.
Chairman Zakaria noted that the core objective of research is to identify problems and offer actionable recommendations for policymakers. “This year we prioritized issues related to food problems. We still lag behind in evidence-based, scientific research,” he added.
Dr. Mohammad Shoeb stated that science-backed food production is a global priority. He reaffirmed that BFSA-affiliated researchers are committed to advancing food safety.
Dr. Nargis Khan stressed the role of safe food in national development. “Research culture is lacking in our country. A nation without food safety has an uncertain future,” she said.
She encouraged researchers to go beyond academic output and ensure that findings are disseminated widely to raise awareness and influence policy.
BFSA expressed hope that the research initiatives will play a crucial role in strengthening food safety in Bangladesh, minimising food-related health risks, and protecting public health through scientific approaches.