The Satellite Ocean Observation and Data Innovation Centre, the country’s first satellite-based ocean data centre, was inaugurated at Chittagong University on Tuesday.
State Minister for Land and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin inaugurated the centre as the chief guest. He highlighted its importance for marine resource management, climate research, fisheries development and disaster preparedness.
Speaking at the event, he said the centre would allow Bangladesh to collect and manage ocean-related data independently.
“Previously, others collected data and information from us. Now, we have the opportunity to collect and manage data ourselves,” he said.
He expressed hope that researchers, policymakers and stakeholders would use the data generated by the centre for national development and public welfare.
The minister said the information produced by the centre would be useful for both land and sea activities, especially for sailors, fishermen, and those involved in shipping and fisheries.
He also assured support for the facility, saying efforts would be made to ensure uninterrupted electricity and high-speed internet for smooth operations.
Among others, UGC Chairman Mamun Ahmed, UGC Member Mohammad Ayub Islam, CU Vice-Chancellor Mohammad Al-Forkan, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh Li Shaopeng, Deputy Director of the Second Institute of Oceanography Fu Bin, and Centre Director Prof Dr Mohammad Muslem Uddin attended the programme.
The centre has been established under China-Bangladesh cooperation. It is expected to play a key role in advancing marine research, sustainable resource management and early warning systems for natural disasters.
