Education Adviser Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar today said that investing in development of a science-minded generation is the key to achieve sustainable development.

He said this while speaking as the chief guest at the Bangladesh Science Academy - Professor Emeritus Dr. Sultan Ahmed Chowdhury Talent Nurture Fund Scholarship Award Ceremony at the National Science and Technology Complex in the capital’s Agargaon.

The education adviser, commonly known as Prof CR Abrar, said, “Today’s event is not merely a prize-giving ceremony; it is a proud celebration of Bangladesh’s continuous progress in scientific practice and research.” 

He noted, “The torch of scientific pursuit for the future of Bangladesh will shine in the hands of our young generation.”

Mentioning that Dr Sultan Ahmed Chowdhury is a brilliant figure in medical science and education, CR Abrar said that his humanitarian vision and outlook serve as an enduring inspiration for the young scientists.

He further said that in today’s world, competition revolves around knowledge and technology, and Bangladesh has already made commendable progress by adopting science-based policies in sectors such as agriculture, health, information technology, renewable energy, and climate adaptation.”

The adviser said that the Bangladesh government is working to implement a science-and innovation-driven development strategy, and it is essential to cultivate young researchers’ interest in scientific thinking and innovation for this purpose.

Addressing the young scholarship recipients, he said, “This scholarship is not merely an award – it is an investment in a generation that will advance tomorrow’s Bangladesh.” 

He added, “You are not just symbols of personal achievement, but symbols of hope for the nation’s scientific future.”

CR Abrar emphasized, “An environment must be created for talent development where schools, universities, research institutions, and industry are interconnected. Science is not merely a matter of laboratories, it is a force for societal change and a path for human welfare.”

At the event, certificates and awards were presented to 200 selected scholarship recipients, with the Education Adviser wishing them success in their future research endeavors.

With President of the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences Dr. Zahurul Karim in the chair, Zakia Rouf Chowdhury, Chairperson of the Professor Emeritus Dr Sultan Ahmed Chowdhury Foundation was present as special guest.