Key Takeaways
- Bangladesh is poised for significant advancements in biotechnology, essential for addressing climate change, food security, and health challenges.
- Key obstacles include policy gaps, talent retention, and the need for stronger research-industry collaboration.
- Experts recommend establishing a tri-partite model between education, industry, and finance to foster innovation and job opportunities in biotechnology.
Bangladesh’s Biotech Future
The upcoming decade is expected to see biotechnology play a transformative role across various sectors in Bangladesh, especially in agriculture, healthcare, and the economy. Due to rising challenges such as climate change, food security, and health issues, the reliance on biotechnology has become crucial.
During a roundtable discussion on April 25, held at The Business Standard office to celebrate World DNA Day, key stakeholders identified significant hurdles facing the sector. Among these challenges are policy gaps, insufficient research-industry linkages, and difficulties in retaining skilled professionals.
Dr. Mahdi Amin, Prime Minister’s adviser, emphasized existing capabilities in vaccination but called for bolstering self-reliance in vaccine development. He pointed out issues like food spoilage in school meal programs and advocated for increased research to create durable, nutritious food options. Dr. Amin also raised concerns about brain drain, proposing a “brain circulation” initiative to leverage expatriate expertise for national benefit.
Engineer Rehan Asif Asad, another adviser, noted that emerging technologies such as bioengineering are pivotal for global competitiveness. He urged Bangladesh to shift focus from its pharmaceutical industry to high-value biotech sectors, aiming for a market worth $10 billion. He highlighted the need for streamlined processes for starting businesses, advocating for a “one-stop service” to simplify approvals.
Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed from the University Grants Commission reported on the increasing number of science and technology universities but stressed the limited employment opportunities driving graduates abroad. He called for a tri-partite model among education, industry, and finance institutions to bridge the gap between academia and the workforce.
Md Anwar Hossain, Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology, mentioned the government’s strategic roadmap for 2030, focusing on talent development and an innovation ecosystem. However, he asserted that weak intellectual property protection and limited biotech job openings necessitate greater collaboration between academia and industry.
Progress in biotechnology was outlined by Professor Dr. Md Anwarul Azim Akhand from Mawlana Bhasani Science and Technology University, who underscored the need for nurturing a science-minded workforce. Government initiatives like dedicated biotechnology units were suggested to support research.
Professor Dr. SM Abdul-Awal of the Prime Minister’s Office reinforced the critical role of biotechnology in achieving Sustainable Development Goals, such as poverty alleviation and climate action. He insisted on improving education with practical labs and programming skills.
Dr. Masih Ul Alam, founder of Immundnz Ltd, stressed the potential for Bangladesh to become a global biotech hub, urging for better policy support and investment infrastructure. He proposed engaging expatriate scientists to enhance local capabilities.
Overall, multiple experts expressed the urgency of adopting international regulatory standards and strengthening public-private partnerships to attract investment and improve Bangladesh’s standing in the global biopharma landscape.
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