National Seminar on Water Rights in Bangladesh

CSIRS-UIU has organized a National Seminar on Water Rights in Bangladesh in collaboration with the Department of Civil Engineering, UIU, ITN-BUET and FANSA Bangladesh (Secretariat: SKS Foundation). The event was held on April 25, 2026, at the Multipurpose Hall of UIU.

This impactful event was aligned with the World Water Day 2026 theme: “Water and Gender: Where Water Flows, Equality Grows.” The seminar brought together an esteemed gathering of policymakers, academics, researchers, development partners, and civil society representatives to engage in meaningful dialogue on equitable and sustainable water governance in Bangladesh.

The event was graced by Mr. Forhad Hossain Azad, MP, Honorable State Minister, Ministry of Water Resources, as the Chief Guest. Mr. Mohammad Saiful Islam Majumder, Joint Secretary, LGD, attended as the Special Guest, while distinguished economist and Chairperson of the Governing Body, BRAC, Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman joined as the Guest of Honor. The session was chaired by Dr. Md. Abul Kashem Mia, Honorable Vice Chancellor of UIU. Technical insights were delivered through keynote presentations by Dr. Md. Mujibur Rahman, Director of CSIRS-UIU, and Dr. Rowshan Mamtaz, Director of ITN-BUET, highlighting critical challenges, policy gaps, and pathways toward achieving water rights in Bangladesh.

With the active participation of around 250 attendees, including government officials, experts, faculty members, students, and media representatives, the seminar fostered a rich exchange of ideas and actionable recommendations. The discussions emphasized the importance of a rights-based, inclusive, and research-driven approach to water governance, particularly in the context of climate change and social equity. CSIRS-UIU and the Department of Civil Engineering, UIU extend their sincere gratitude to all distinguished guests, collaborators, speakers, and participants for making this seminar a remarkable success.