Professor Dr M A Rahim, acting dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, head of the Department of Agricultural Science at Daffodil International University (DIU), and a distinguished agricultural scientist, has been awarded the country’s highest civilian honour, the Independence Award 2026.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to research and training, Daffodil International University organised a felicitation programme to celebrate the achievement.

The event was held at the International Conference Hall of Knowledge Tower at Daffodil Smart City.

UGC Member Dr Masuma Habib attended the programme as chief guest.

Special guests included Vice-Chancellor of EXIM Bank Agricultural University, Rajshahi Dr Shafiqul Bari, and Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies at Gazipur Agricultural University Dr Md Tofazzal Islam.

The programme was also attended by Vice-Chancellor of DIU Dr M R Kabir, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dr Mohammad Masum Iqbal, along with faculty members, students and invited guests.

The programme began with a ceremonial guard of honour presented by BNCC cadets, followed by the national anthem.

A welcome speech was delivered, and a documentary highlighting the life and work of Professor Dr M A Rahim was screened.

The guests later delivered speeches, highlighting his contribution and achievements in agricultural research and education.

His efforts to expand agricultural education, lead research and promote innovation have played an important role in advancing Bangladesh’s agricultural sector.

During his tenure at DIU, Professor Rahim achieved a significant milestone in agricultural research.

Under his leadership, four high-yielding and improved jackfruit varieties — DIU Jackfruit-1, DIU Jackfruit-2, DIU Jackfruit-3 and DIU Jackfruit-4 — developed at the Germplasm Center of the Department of Agricultural Science, were recently approved and registered by the National Seed Board and the Ministry of Agriculture.

The university said the achievement stands as an important example of DIU’s research-driven initiatives contributing to sustainable agricultural development, food security and innovation in the sector.

Professor Dr M A Rahim is a well-known name in agricultural research and fruit development in Bangladesh.

His contribution to the expansion of fruit cultivation and the development of high-yielding fruit varieties has opened new possibilities in the country’s agricultural sector.

Through his research, he has developed 128 new fruit varieties, among which the widely known BAU Kul is particularly notable.

In recognition of his long contribution to agricultural research, he has received numerous awards, including the Prime Minister’s Gold Medal in 2004, 2012 and 2013, the Bangabandhu Agricultural Award in 2014, the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences Gold Medal in 2012, and the Bangladesh Academy of Agriculture Gold Medal in 2016.

Most recently, he has been honoured with the Independence Award 2026.

In 2024, he also received the Prothom Alo Agriculture Lifetime Achievement Award.

Earlier, he was honoured with lifetime achievement awards from Channel i and RTV.

Vice-Chancellor of DIU Dr M R Kabir said, “This glorious achievement of Professor Dr M A Rahim is a matter of immense pride and joy for us. His dedication, research contributions and innovative vision have greatly enriched our university. We believe this recognition will inspire future generations to explore new frontiers in knowledge and research.”

Pro-Vice-Chancellor of DIU Dr Mohammad Masum Iqbal said, “Professor Dr M A Rahim is one of the leading scientists in the agricultural sector of the country. We are proud to have him as a part of our university.”

Professor Dr M A Rahim obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture from Bangladesh Agricultural University and earned his PhD from the University of London.

He also completed postdoctoral research in the United States.

He previously served for many years at Bangladesh Agricultural University as professor and head of the Department of Horticulture, as well as dean of the Faculty of Agriculture.

He currently serves as professor and head of the Department of Agricultural Science at Daffodil International University and also acts as an adviser to the university.

The university said that under his leadership, the department has reached new heights in fruit research, productivity enhancement and sustainable horticulture practices.

In his academic career, he has published more than 400 scientific papers and led over 20 research projects.

He has supervised 101 PhD and 350 MS students.

He has also contributed to knowledge dissemination by publishing 10 books, 24 leaflets, 11 booklets and 29 folders on agricultural topics.