Investment in agri research vital for food security: Fakhrul

LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said ensuring food security for the nation remains a formidable challenge, underscoring the need for greater investment in agricultural research to achieve that objective, report agencies.
He made the remarks while addressing an orientation programme of the freshers at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU) in the capital on Sunday.
The minister said pursuing agricultural studies does not necessarily mean the graduates must seek government jobs.
"Instead of finding their own employment, the graduates should create job opportunities for others by launching businesses, industries and technology-based ventures linked to agriculture," he said.
He described the agricultural students as the 'fellows very close the country's soil' saying they should move beyond the traditional pursuit of government job, rather make stride to establish agro-based industries.
Urging the freshers to become entrepreneurs, he encouraged them to build careers through agro-based industries, agribusiness and innovative agricultural initiatives.
"The country's agriculture sector has enormous potentials. If young people come forward as entrepreneurs, they can generate employment while making a significant contribution to the national economy," he said.