International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) strengthen their partnership to enhance rice research and innovation in Bangladesh

Dhaka, Bangladesh (March 19, 2025) — The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), Ministry of Agriculture, Government of Bangladesh, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in research and innovation, technology transfer, extension services, and capacity development in the rice-based agrifood systems in Bangladesh. The MoU signing ceremony, which took place at DAE Head Office, Khamarbari, Farmgate, Dhaka marked a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between IRRI and the Government of Bangladesh.

Under this MoU, IRRI and DAE will collaborate on research and development (R&D) projects to enhance the productivity of rice-based agri-food systems, promote climate-smart agriculture, and accelerate technology dissemination to smallholder farmers. The agreement focuses on scaling up climate-resilient rice varieties, promoting diversified cropping systems, improving seed systems, fostering agricultural mechanization, adopting sustainable farming practices, and providing capacity-building initiatives for farmers and extension professionals.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between IRRI and the Department of Agricultural Extension. This MoU is not just a formal agreement, but a testament to our shared vision and commitment to advancing Bangladesh’s rice-based agri-food systems through research, innovation, and collaboration,” said Dr. Humnath Bhandari, IRRI Representative for Bangladesh. “Together with DAE, we aim to accelerate the adoption of innovative and sustainable rice farming practices that benefit both farmers and the environment.”

Md. Saiful Alam, Director General of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Bangladesh, highlighted the importance of this partnership, “With Bangladesh’s growing population, the demand for rice continues to rise every year. DAE and IRRI have a long-standing partnership in driving innovation in the country’s rice sector. This new MoU will strengthen our ability to integrate cutting-edge…