UIU hosts national seminar on water rights in Bangladesh

United International University (UIU) organised a national seminar on “Water Rights in Bangladesh” at its campus.

The seminar was arranged by the Department of Civil Engineering, according to a press release.

Forhad Hossain Azad, state minister for water resources, attended as chief guest.

Hossain Zillur Rahman, economist and chairperson of the governing body of BRAC and founder and executive chairman of PPRC, attended as guest of honour.

Mohammad Saiful Islam Majumder, joint secretary of the Local Government Division, attended as special guest.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Md Abul Kashem Mia presided over the programme.

Keynote papers were presented by Professor Md Mujibur Rahman, director of CSIRS at UIU, and Professor Rowshan Mamtaz, director of ITN-BUET.

Forhad Hossain Azad said ensuring equitable and sustainable water distribution is essential.

He highlighted government initiatives on water resource management and climate challenges and called for collaboration among government, academia and civil society.

Hossain Zillur Rahman said water rights should be considered as an issue of social justice and governance.

He highlighted the importance of research and data-driven approaches in shaping water policies.

Speakers emphasised a rights-based approach to water management in line with the theme of World Water Day 2026, “Water and Gender: Where Water Flows, Equality Grows”.

Professor Md Abul Kashem Mia said universities play a key role in research, innovation and policy dialogue on national issues.

Faculty members, students, officials, experts and guests attended the seminar.