In a significant move towards promoting sustainable fisheries, Khulna Agricultural University (KAU) organized a programme to mark National Fisheries Fortnight-2026. The event, held at the university's Temporary Campus-1, included a fish fry release, a rally, and a discussion on sustainable fisheries resource management. The theme of the programme was 'A Self-Reliant Country through Silver Fish', underscoring the importance of fisheries in achieving national self-reliance.
The programme was organized by the Faculty of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. Speakers at the event highlighted 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. They stressed that fish fry release alone is not sufficient; it requires conservation of aquatic ecosystems, ensuring water quality, selecting suitable species, and regular monitoring of the growth and survival of released fish.
Professor Dr Md Asaduzzaman Sarker, Vice-Chancellor of KAU, attended the discussion as the chief guest. He emphasized the importance of applying research-based knowledge and modern technologies to conserve fisheries resources and increase production. Dr Sarker called for stronger coordination among universities, the Department of Fisheries, fisheries research organizations, industries, and local communities to ensure the sustainable development of the fisheries sector.
Other notable attendees included 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. Dr Md Mehedi Alam, representing the Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, chaired the discussion.
The speakers urged all stakeholders to work together to conserve fisheries resources, protect native fish species, and boost production through modern, scientific, and sustainable fisheries management. They also highlighted the need to take research findings from the university to the grassroots level so that fish farmers, fishermen, and entrepreneurs can benefit from them.
