Professor Dr. Md. Serazul Islam

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the School of Agriculture and Rural Development (SARD) at Bangladesh Open University. Since its establishment in 1992, BOU has been a pioneer in expanding access to education through innovative open and distance learning. In a country like Bangladesh, where agriculture is the backbone of the economy and the main source of livelihood for most people, the need for inclusive and accessible agricultural education is more important than ever.

SARD, established in 1996, was created with a clear vision: to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice. We aim to provide practical, need-based, and technology-driven agricultural education to learners in both rural and urban areas. Our mission supports national goals such as food security, sustainable resource management, and rural development by developing skilled human resources.

We are proud to offer a wide range of academic programs, from certificate to doctoral levels. Our ongoing programs-including Certificate in Livestock and Poultry (CLP), Certificate in Pisciculture & Fish Processing (CPFP), Bachelor of Agricultural Education (BAgEd), MS in Agricultural Sciences (with specializations in Agronomy, Entomology, Irrigation and Water Management, Aquaculture, Poultry Science, and Soil Science), Master in Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Livelihood (MSARL), and PhD programs-are designed to build both knowledge and practical skills. These programs are especially suitable for working professionals, allowing them to continue their education without interrupting their careers.

In the coming years, SARD plans to expand further by introducing new programs such as BSc in Agriculture (Hons), Bachelor in Youth Development Work, and specialized certificate courses in poultry management and agro-processing. These initiatives reflect our commitment to preparing skilled, innovative, and responsible graduates who can address both national and global agricultural challenges.

At SARD, we follow a blended learning approach that combines printed materials, audio-visual resources, practical training, and research activities. Our modern laboratories and research farms at the BOU main campus provide excellent opportunities for hands-on learning and innovation. Our faculty members are also actively engaged in research and regularly publish in national and international journals, including the Journal of Agriculture & Rural Development (JARD).

As an academic leader, I strongly believe that education has the power to transform lives and communities. Through open and distance learning, SARD is helping to make agricultural knowledge accessible to all, especially at the grassroots level. In doing so, we are contributing to national development by improving productivity, promoting sustainability, and strengthening rural livelihoods.

I warmly invite students, professionals, researchers, and development practitioners to join us on this journey of learning, innovation, and service. Together, we can build a more resilient, food-secure, and sustainable Bangladesh.