Eliminating discrimination in research sector is necessity

Discrimination in the research sector have become increasingly apparent. Certain institutions consistently receive funding for research projects, while others cannot be engaged in research activities at all. Despite this inequality, such biased project allocations have not ceased.

At a conference on Saturday (2 November), speakers emphasized the importance of considering prior experience, nature of work, and skilled personnel when selecting research institutions for each project.

The 9th conference, organized by the Bangladesh Institute of Social Research (BISR) Trust at the National Academy for Planning and Development (NAPD) in Nilkhet, Dhaka, saw prominent researchers from the country express this viewpoint. BISR has been hosting this national conference annually during its anniversary month, focusing on social research in Bangladesh.

This year’s conference featured the presentation of 28 new research papers on four themes: gender, economy, environment and climate, and public health, contributed by students, faculty, and researchers from various universities and research institutions, both domestic and international.

Renowned scientist Dr. Abed Chaudhury, the inventor of the “Panchabrihi” rice, was the chief guest. He highlighted the importance of social research, noting that the term "Panchabrihi" comes from the ability to harvest the same crop five times in different seasons from a single planting.

He stated, “Science is completely absent from our consciousness; we should develop our sense of science. Our Dr. Kudrat-i-Khuda and Professor Salam have provided some support for physics.”

Dr. Khurshed Alam, a prominent sociologist, researcher, and chairman of BISR Trust, pointed out the discrimination in funding among research institutions, stating that some receive allocations while others do not, despite their qualifications. He called for an end to this inequality.

“Various institutions and individuals also voiced concerns about the lack of funding for research. While this claim is valid, it is equally true that a significant amount of allocated funds for higher education and research institutions remains unutilized,” he added.

Dr. Khurshed noted that some researchers are showing less interest in research, and addressing discrimination in funding could motivate them to engage more.

Additionally, Khurshed Alam called for transforming “One Bangladesh” towards “Number 1 Bangladesh.”

In the themed sessions, top university educators led discussions, allowing a new generation of researchers to present their papers.

A total of 28 research papers were presented at the conference. Teachers, students, and researchers from over 30 universities participated.

The conference highlighted critical issues related to gender and socioeconomic challenges in Bangladesh. One paper discussed the structural barriers faced by Bangladeshi female students in sports-related courses, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to enhance their participation. Another study examined the dire conditions of street children and child laborers in Dhaka, shedding light on their vulnerability and exploitation. Child-led advocacy efforts were showcased as a means to secure rights for children in the brothel community of Daulatdia, emphasizing empowerment and community engagement. Additionally, a technical exploration of Hyperledger Fabric’s interoperability aimed at transforming marriage and DenMahr transactions illustrated innovative solutions to societal issues.

The economy session of conference featured studies on consumer behavior and socioeconomic influences in Bangladesh‍‍`s economy. China‍‍`s investments and the context of debt trap diplomacy was discussed by a researcher.

The Environmental Session of the 9th Annual Conference on Social Research in Bangladesh, chaired by Professor Dr. ASM Saifullah, featured discussions led by Associate Professor Dr. M. Golam Mustafa and National Consultant Riaz Ahmed. A total of nine papers were presented, addressing critical themes such as microplastics, energy conservation awareness, and drinking water availability in coastal region, Landfill site suitability, etc. Notably, Mehedi Hasan Jony from MBSTU presented a paper on microplastics, after which the urgent need for a plastic-related policy in Bangladesh is addressed by the participants. Nafisa Rumman Safa presented a paper on landfill site suitability using the AHP and GIS methods from SUST. This research was well-received for its potential to inform policymakers, as it suggests that individualized landfill solutions for each city can be developed by considering various environmental parameters. Additionally, Sidratul Moontaha from Comilla University explored energy conservation awareness among university students, highlighting significant disparities in knowledge and implementation between private and public institutions. The chair and discussants acknowledged the importance of this research, suggesting that expanding the study to include more universities could provide valuable insights into the energy conservation awareness of future leaders in the country.

The conference addressed critical public health issues in Bangladesh, focusing on various vulnerable populations. A qualitative study explored occupational health risks faced by women workers in the garment sector in Cumilla, while another paper assessed secondary school students‍‍` knowledge of adolescent and reproductive health in Khulna City. 

Additional research examined the association between psychological distress and food insecurity among university students, as well as the mental health conditions of individuals in relation to employment status in the post-COVID-19 era, highlighting the need for improved access to health services and food safety practices across different demographics.

The conference concluded with a declaration to elevate Bangladeshi research to the forefront of the global stage. Jamuna Television was the media partner for the event.

The Bangladesh Institute of Social Research (BISR) Trust is a non-governmental, non-profit, non-political organization focusing on social justice, development, and human rights. It aims to promote social change and improve the quality of life for marginalized communities through research, educational support, and advocacy for policy making as well as change.