In the deep folds of Bangladesh’s natural landscape lies a rich yet underexplored plant biodiversity, veiled within its lush wetlands, riverbanks, and forest corridors. As ecological degradation, urban expansion, and climate change continue to pressure these fragile ecosystems, a significant scientific initiative has emerged to chart, classify, and conserve the aquatic plant species of two vital regions—Barishal and Sylhet. This mission, spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and executed by the Bangladesh National Herbarium, reflects a timely endeavor to restore the balance between science and sustainability.
At the heart of this initiative stands the “Survey of Vascular Floating and Benthic Species (SVFBS) in Barishal and Sylhet Divisions,” a comprehensive botanical survey aimed at re-mapping the aquatic flora of these ecologically critical regions. On May 28, 2025, a landmark seminar titled “Presentation of Findings from the Botanical Survey of Barishal and Sylhet Divisions” was held at the Bangladesh National Herbarium auditorium, where policy-makers, researchers, and academics came together to share insights and chart a path forward.
A Visionary Scientist at the Helm: Professor Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin
One of the most profound highlights of the seminar was the presence of Professor Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin, a luminary in the field of botany and ethnobotany, and currently the Vice-Chancellor of Meherpur University. His keynote technical presentation on “Aquatic Plant Identification and Taxonomic Classification Techniques” captivated the audience and ignited thoughtful dialogue among specialists, policymakers, and aspiring researchers.
As the creator of the Ethnobotanical Database of Bangladesh and the Medicinal Plants of Bangladesh digital compendium, Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin has played a transformative role in the documentation, preservation, and academic dissemination of plant knowledge in South Asia. His pioneering work bridges traditional knowledge systems with modern science, emphasizing the importance of integrating indigenous wisdom with taxonomic rigor.
Beyond national boundaries, he serves as a lifetime member and advisor to prestigious international bodies such as the Society for Medicinal Plant Research (Germany), International Society for Research on Natural Products, and the Association of Global Traditional Medicine, where he currently holds the position of Vice President. These affiliations have amplified the global visibility of Bangladeshi plant research and underlined the country’s potential as a center of excellence in botanical studies.
The Seminar in Focus: Building Scientific Bridges
The seminar brought together high-level dignitaries including:
- Chief Guest: Mr. Md. Kamal Uddin, Secretary, Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division, Ministry of Planning
- Special Guests:
- Mr. Mohammad Navid Shafiullah, Additional Secretary (Climate Change), Ministry of Environment
- Dr. Anjan Kumar Deb Roy, Additional Secretary, Forest, Fisheries and Livestock Wing, Planning Commission
- Chairperson: Md. Zahirul Islam, Joint Secretary and Director (Additional Charge), Bangladesh National Herbarium
These distinguished guests emphasized the strategic importance of regional botanical research in achieving sustainable development, ecosystem restoration, and national biodiversity targets. In particular, their speeches reaffirmed the government’s commitment to utilizing scientific data for informed environmental policymaking.
Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin’s Technical Address: A Deep Dive into Methodology
During the technical session, Professor Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin delved into the nuances of taxonomic classification in aquatic environments. His session highlighted both field-level challenges and the need for standardized international protocols. By blending empirical data with robust scientific frameworks, his approach illuminated how local knowledge can be systematized into globally recognized research.
For emerging researchers, his talk served as both a practical guideline and a source of academic inspiration. His call to action centered on developing an interdisciplinary, inclusive, and data-driven framework for studying plant species—particularly in wetland and riparian environments, where biodiversity loss is escalating.
Academic Leadership and Institutional Vision
As the Vice-Chancellor of Meherpur University, Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin has implemented wide-reaching reforms that transcend traditional academic administration. Under his leadership:
- Strategic planning has been institutionalized for research and academic excellence.
- Faculty and staff development programs have been launched to elevate teaching standards.
- Student support services have been enhanced to foster inclusive and intellectually vibrant campus life.
- Emphasis has been placed on adopting technology-integrated and innovation-driven pedagogies.
These achievements underscore his belief that higher education institutions must not only be centers of learning but also hubs of sustainable research that directly benefit communities and ecosystems.
Reimagining Conservation Through Science
The SVFBS initiative is not just about cataloging flora; it is a transformative journey to reconnect science with conservation and heritage. Barishal and Sylhet, with their rich hydrological networks and endemic plant species, are emblematic of the ecological treasures that Bangladesh holds. Through this survey, the project aims to:
- Generate an updated database of aquatic plant species for both regions.
- Identify endangered and near-extinct species for conservation prioritization.
- Recommend policy frameworks for habitat protection.
- Develop capacity among local researchers and conservationists.
Professor Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin’s involvement in this process has given it both academic credibility and international legitimacy. His expertise ensures that findings from the project can seamlessly integrate into global biodiversity platforms such as the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and the IUCN Red List.
A Hopeful Path Forward
The resounding message from the seminar was clear: the time to act for plant conservation is now. In an era of escalating climate stress and habitat loss, initiatives like the SVFBS are more than scientific exercises—they are acts of ecological justice. As Bangladesh navigates the path toward sustainable development, it must continue to invest in and empower research that safeguards its biological legacy.
Professor Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin’s visionary leadership and scientific passion serve as a beacon for future generations. His role in this project reflects a broader movement to place botanical science at the heart of environmental diplomacy, education, and policy.
Conclusion
Bangladesh’s journey into the heart of its green soul—through efforts like the Barishal and Sylhet plant survey—is one of rediscovery, resilience, and reconnection. With trailblazing scientists like Dr. Shaikh Bokhtear Uddin leading the way, the country is poised to not only document its flora but to celebrate it as a foundation of national identity and global contribution.
As this survey continues to unfold, the world watches—not just to see which plants are found, but to understand how a nation can reclaim its ecological future through science, leadership, and hope.
