icddr,b marks 65 years with seminar on nutrition research legacy

icddr,b has observed its 65th anniversary with a special seminar entitled "A Half-Century's Journey of Nutritional Pursuit across Southern Asia", reflecting on decades of scientific discovery and public health impact in Bangladesh and the region.

Held at the organisation's Sasakawa Auditorium in Mohakhali, the event brought together diplomats, scientists, alumni, development partners, and staff to honour icddr,b's long-standing mission of advancing research that saves lives.

In his welcome address, Executive Director, Dr Tahmeed Ahmed, thanked icddr,b's long-standing donors, alumni, corporates, collaborators, and partners for their continued trust and commitment over more than six decades. "The impacts that matter to us are not research articles; what truly matters is how our research translates into action for the people who need it most," he said, recognising the contributions of scientists and staff across laboratories, hospitals, and field sites, as well as collaborating countries and local philanthropies.

A message from Her Excellency Ambassador Tracey Ann Jacobson, US Chargé d'Affaires, was read by Shusmita Khan, Senior Health Specialist at the US Embassy. The message highlighted the United States' support to icddr,b since 1979, describing the partnership as an investment that has driven research, shaped global policy, and strengthened health systems beyond Bangladesh. It recognised icddr,b's contributions to disease surveillance, outbreak response, and vaccine research, reaffirming the US Government's commitment to continued collaboration under the America First Global Health Strategy.

His Excellency Ajit Singh, High Commissioner of Canada to Bangladesh and chief guest, praised icddr,b's unique model of combining world-class research with direct service to vulnerable communities. He noted that Canada's partnership with icddr,b spans decades and remains a source of national pride, adding that global interconnectedness means the well-being of vulnerable communities in Bangladesh matters everywhere. He stressed that development ambitions cannot be sustained without strong public health systems.

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Keith P West Jr, the George G Graham Professor of Infant and Child Nutrition at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Drawing on five decades of work in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Indonesia—beginning during the 1974 famine—he reflected on research that has shaped global understanding of micronutrient deficiencies, maternal nutrition, and child survival. He highlighted evidence from landmark JiVitA trials in Bangladesh, noting that women who begin multiple micronutrient supplementation before conception experience about a 30 per cent reduction in early pregnancy loss compared with those who start after pregnancy begins.

During the event, Professor West presented Dr Tahmeed Ahmed with a first-edition map of Bangladesh, an early tool used for preparing Oral Rehydration Solution, and several historical books from his personal collection.

icddr,b Day observance spanned two days, with a vibrant Fun Fair Marketplace and divisional exhibitions on 26 November featuring crafts, food items, clothing, and research innovations. The first day concluded with a cultural programme performed by staff members. Celebrations continued on 27 November with the scientific seminar, which brought the focus back to icddr,b's founding mission and the partnerships that sustain it.

As icddr,b marks its 65th year, the institution continues to receive global recognition for its contributions to public health, including placement in Time's Best Inventions list for a social impact innovation, and the inclusion of its executive director in the Time Health 100.

The anniversary observance reaffirmed icddr,b's commitment to advancing evidence, strengthening health systems, and developing solutions that improve lives in Bangladesh and beyond.