DIU Professor receives independence award 2026
With dedication and vision, Professor Dr M. A. Rahim of Daffodil International University (DIU) has earned the Independence Award 2026, Bangladesh's highest civilian honour, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to research and training.
As Acting Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Head of the Department of Agricultural Science at DIU, Dr Rahim leads innovative work that shapes the future. His relentless drive has propelled agricultural research and education forward, fueling national development.
The government's announcement highlights Dr Rahim's long dedication to research and training. His promotion of agricultural education and innovation has played a pivotal role in strengthening the country's agricultural sector.
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The DIU community is abuzz with pride, as the Board of Trustees, administration, faculty, and students all rally to congratulate Dr Rahim on this national triumph.
During his tenure at DIU, Dr Rahim significantly advanced agricultural research. Under his leadership, four high-yielding jackfruit varieties—DIU Jackfruit-1 through DIU Jackfruit-4—were recently approved and registered by the National Seed Board and Ministry of Agriculture.
The university proudly states that this accomplishment stands as a testament to its drive for research-fueled innovation, sustainable farming, and national food security.
Dr Rahim is regarded as a leading figure in Bangladesh's agricultural research and fruit development. DIU notes he has developed 128 new fruit varieties, including the well-known BAU Kul, creating opportunities in fruit cultivation and contributing to the agricultural economy.
He has received many honours, 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.
In 2024, Dr Rahim was honoured with the Prothom Alo Agriculture Lifetime Achievement Award, alongside lifetime achievement awards from Channel i and RTV, underscoring his enduring influence.
Dr Rahim completed undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Bangladesh Agricultural University, earned his PhD from the University of London, and did postdoctoral research in the United States.
Earlier, he served with distinction as Professor and Head of the Department of Horticulture and as Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Bangladesh Agricultural University.
A prolific scholar, Dr Rahim has published more than 400 scientific papers, steered over 20 research projects, and mentored 101 PhD and 350 MS students. He has also authored 10 influential books and developed numerous educational resources, spreading agricultural wisdom far and wide.
The university sees this national honour as a beacon for its ongoing pursuit of excellence in education and research. It believes Dr Rahim's success will inspire tomorrow's researchers to pursue innovation and contribute to development at home and abroad.
A notification from the Cabinet Division, dated 5 March 2026, revealed the selection of 15 individuals and five institutions for the Independence Award 2026, honouring their remarkable achievements across diverse fields.
