With enthusiastic support from Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) and organized by the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), the “Youth Festival 2025” was held on Thursday, September 4, at GAU’s Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium. Themed “The Innovative Power of Youth: A Driving Force for Agricultural Transformation,” the day-long event emphasized youth-led research and innovation as vital for sustainable agricultural development.
The seminar was chaired by Dr. Nazmun Nahar Karim, Executive Chairman of BARC. Professor Dr. GKM Mustafizur Rahman, Vice-Chancellor of GAU, attended as Chief Patron, with Dr. Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian, Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, as Chief Guest. Professor Dr. Md. Safiul Islam Afrad, GAU Treasurer, joined as Special Guest.
Over 360 students, alongside GAU faculty, deans, directors, researchers, agri-entrepreneurs, and officials from BARC and the Ministry, participated in the event. The program began with a welcome address by Dr. Md. Mosharraf Uddin Molla, Member Director, (AERS, BARC), followed by a keynote from Dr. Md. Abdus Salam, Chief Scientific Officer (AERS Division, BARC).
His talk underscored youth engagement in tackling climate change, adopting technology and innovating in agriculture. A key highlight was the presentation of success stories from 11 agri-entrepreneurs including 3 GAU alumni, shared through video documentaries and personal narratives.
They offered valuable insights and encouragement for aspiring youth entrepreneurs. In recognition of their contributions, the Chief Guest and Chief Patron jointly presented honorary crests to the entrepreneurs. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. GKM Mustafizur Rahman noted, “Inspiring youth in agri-entrepreneurship is vital for an agriculture-based nation like Bangladesh.
GAU is committed to fostering innovation and a research-friendly environment.” VC added, “Youth are our greatest asset in facing climate change, food security and technological challenges. Their innovative power is key to agricultural transformation.” Agriculture Secretary Dr. Mian emphasized, “Youth are central to our vision for modern agriculture.
The government’s 25-year plan targeting 2050 has identified 9 agricultural universities as key hubs for innovation. We are fully committed to ensuring food security through agri-tech advancement.” Closing the event, Dr. Nazmun Nahar Karim encouraged youth to channel their creativity and lead Bangladesh toward a dynamic, future-ready agricultural sector.
