Agriculture sector

By A Husnain Dhaka
23 March 2005, 18:00 PM
The government is rightly focussed on the agricultural development of this fertile country, where the vast majority live in the rural areas. But it is rather surprising to note (letter in DS Mar 17) that the R&D facilities at the leading agriculture university in Dhaka (SAU) has several shortcomings.

Unless the scientific base is strengthened, the structure, generally speaking, cannot contribute effectively. It is not a difficult task.

Political weakness is revealed here: the fondness for low-level publicity gimmicks such as opening ceremonies of cosmetic projects by the politicians. Our elected representatives have to display more professional acumen in their PR. We are a talkative society.

The professionals in the background (in every public sector) need more exposure and encouragement.

Our politics suffers from narcissism, due to discouraging competition. Change is a part of life, and it has to be respected, and faced in pragmatic and positive ways. Don't try to hold on to your fort for ever! Give others a chance, and then come back...

if you can.