Commerce, Industries and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said there is no such thing as failure in scientific research, as every stage of research creates new knowledge and experience that drives future innovation forward.
He urged teachers, parents and all concerned to further encourage students in scientific study and research.
He made the remarks while speaking as chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of the 47th National Science and Technology Week and Science Fair held on Friday (May 15) at Mohammad Ali Gymnasium of Sylhet District Stadium in Sylhet.
The minister said that a country’s main strength lies in a knowledge-based society and research.
Referring to university-based knowledge practices in the United States, he said research and innovation can elevate a country to the peak of development.
Khandaker Abdul Muktadir praised the courage, innovative thinking and creativity of the students participating in the science fair.
He further said, solutions to many national problems must come from domestic research. Citing examples such as the invention of oral saline for preventing diarrhea and the use of local technology for preserving onions and potatoes, he said, these innovations emerged from the country’s real needs and represent successful applications of research.
He noted that continuing science education and organizing science fairs at school, college and university levels would foster the growth of new innovative ideas.
The function was chaired by Divisional Commissioner Md Mashiur Rahman. Special guests included Member of Parliament M A Malik, Vice-Chancellor of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology Prof Dr ASM Sarwaruddin Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of Sylhet Agricultural University Prof Dr Md Alimul Islam, Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury, Sylhet Metropolitan Police Commissioner Abdul Quddus Chowdhury, Deputy Commissioner Md Sarwar Alam and Additional Range DIG Md Anwarul Haque.
Additional Divisional Commissioner Ashrafur Rahman delivered the welcome speech.
Later, the minister distributed prizes among winners of various categories of the New Buds Sports competition at the district level in Sylhet.