Farida Akhter, the Adviser for Fisheries and Livestock, today underscored the paramount importance of animal health in guaranteeing human nutrition and bolstering national food security.
Speaking as the chief guest at the Dean’s Award and Orientation-2024 program, organized by the Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University this afternoon, the Adviser highlighted the pivotal role of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock in fulfilling the country’s animal protein requirements.
“Cattle and poultry often suffer from various diseases. If their health is not protected, human food security will also be at risk,” she warned, further noting that consuming meat from affected animals poses serious health risks to humans. She emphatically stated, “There is no room for compromise with animal health.“
Akhter drew attention to the increasing concern surrounding zoonotic diseases—those transmitted from animals to humans. “It is no longer appropriate to view animal and human health separately. Animal health must be given greater priority,” she asserted, emphasizing a “One Health” approach.
She also highlighted the intrinsic link between veterinary science and animal science, revealing that the government is actively considering a unified approach to both disciplines. “Animal health and production go hand in hand. Integrating these areas will strengthen our livestock sector,” she added.
The event saw the presence of several distinguished guests, including Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Abdul Latif, Dhaka Agricultural University Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Belal Hossain, Department of Livestock Services (DLS) Director General Dr. Md. Abu Sufian, and Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI) Director General Dr. Shaikha Farzana.
Professor Dr. Md. Jahangir Alam of the university’s Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine presided over the program.
