Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) yesterday organised a special research-based event named ‘Research Festival 2025’ for the first time in its 23-year history.
The daylong event was arranged by the 'PSTU Research and Training Center' to reflect on the crisis, potential, and sustainable development of the country’s coastal region.
Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar joined the programme virtually as the chief guest. Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Kazi Rafiqul Islam was present as the chief patron, while Dean of the Faculty of Biology Prof Md. Sujahangir Kabir Sarkar conducted it.
University Grants Commission (UGC) member Prof Masuma Habib, Pro-VC Prof SM Hemayet Jahan and Senior Professor Md. Hamidur Rahman attended as special guests.
In her remarks, Adviser Farida Akhtar said universities should be centers of research and creativity, encouraging teachers and researchers to engage in research and share their findings with students.
VC Kazi Rafiqul Islam said that teachers should not only teach but also contribute to the country’s development through research. “PSTU has set a new example by organising such a festival for the first time among universities this year,” he added.
UGC member Prof Masuma Habib praised the quality of research and expressed hope that PSTU would soon become a 'Center of Excellence.'
Under a UGC special grant for 2022-23, 10 research projects from five faculties and two special projects of the PSTU Research and Training Center were presented, focusing on ‘Research for Coastal Resilience.’
A commemorative book and a report featuring selected research projects will be published. The event inspired students and marked the beginning of a new chapter in coastal research.
