[Dhaka, 06/07/2023] – The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agriculture University (BSMRAU), and Bangladesh Seed Association (BSA) have entered into a strategic partnership to enhance the quality and productivity of the agriculture sector in Bangladesh.
The collaborative activity will provide specialized training in seed certification and quality assurance for developing the capacity of the private seed producers.
Representatives from the IRRI, BSMRAU, and BSA met on 06 July, 2023 at the BSA Office, marking a milestone towards improving the country's seed industry. The meeting explored the potential of introducing a dedicated seed certification course to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the private sector seed industry field.
"This partnership holds immense promise for the seed industry in Bangladesh,” said Anowar Faruk, the BSA spokesperson. “By equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills required for seed certification, we can elevate the entire sector and contribute to the country's agricultural development goals."
BSMRU Prof. Dr. M. Moynul emphasized the importance of high-quality seeds in achieving agricultural sustainability and food security. He highlighted the need for standardized procedures and advanced techniques in seed certification to ensure farmers have access to reliable, disease-resistant, and high-yielding varieties.
The seed certification course covers seed production techniques, genetic purity testing, seed storage and handling, disease and pest management, certifications and regulatory frameworks as well ethics and national rules and acts. The program will also incorporate practical training, field visits, and interactive sessions with industry experts, enabling participants to gain hands-on experience and real-world insights.
Upon successful completion of the course, participants are expected to know the necessary expertise to effectively manage seed certification processes, maintain quality control, and ensure compliance with national and international standards. Equipped with modern and science-backed knowledge, they will play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agriculture practices, improving crop yields, and safeguarding the interests of farmers across Bangladesh.
The seed certification course is scheduled to take place from 06 to 10 August and will be open to mid-level scientists, researchers, and production officials from the private seed industry.
For further information about the seed certification course or to express interest in participating, please contact:
Prof. Dr. M. Moynul Haque, Department of Agronomy (Adjunct in Seed Science and Technology), BSMRAU
Email: moynul60@yahoo.com
Phone number: +8801711908640
Ahmed Ali Chowdhary (Iqbal), Director (Training)
Email: bsabd.2000@gmail.com
Phone number: +8801733718026
About the University
BSMRAU was established in 1998 from the then Institute of Postgraduate Studies in Agriculture gave a sound footing in basic and applied research in different disciplines of agriculture in this new university. The university has been conducting research from its inception shouldering active roles in national and international agricultural research arena. Teaching excellence and effective research are conclusively interrelated in academics and that of innovation in programs. Classrooms teaching are continually powered and enriched by those faculty members who are actively engaged in research. The mission of the Office of Director (Research) is “to support the development of research programs of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University and to provide quality service and effective administrative expertise to the community of the University Research”.
About Bangladesh Seed Association (BSA)
BSA is the apex body of various informal and formal seed associations throughout the country. The mission of BSA is to ensure production and supply of best quality seeds among the farmers throughout the country at an affordable price so that farmers’ productivity and income increase. BSGDMA has obtained approval of Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) for transforming its name BSGDMA to BSA. As part of its long-term effort to provide improved services/products to its members in order to assist the development of the seed sector of Bangladesh, BSA has taken some significant initiatives in conjunction with different development partners.
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