News Desk: Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam has reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to establishing an integrated, equitable, and sustainable cancer care system through the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology.
He made this pledge on Tuesday (September 15) while addressing the IAEA Scientific Forum 2026, titled “Rays of Hope: Cancer Care for All,” held in Vienna, Austria.
The Science and Technology Minister stated that the government, led by Prime Minister Tareq Rahman, is committed to tackling the country’s growing cancer burden through the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology. Through this initiative, Bangladesh aims to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG-3) by ensuring good health and well-being for all.
He noted that necessary equipment and infrastructure alone are not sufficient for sustainable cancer care. An integrated and patient-centric system is required, encompassing prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, skilled human resources, quality assurance, and palliative care.
The Minister mentioned that Bangladesh joined the “Rays of Hope” initiative in 2025 and is working closely with the IAEA to translate this partnership into effective national-level programs.
He highlighted the establishment of an integrated one-stop cancer care center as a key priority within this framework, noting that it would enable the delivery of more coordinated, accessible, and patient-centric services.
Commending the IAEA’s technical cooperation, Fakir Mahbub Anam stated that the agency’s support is vital for Bangladesh in terms of capacity building, knowledge sharing, and strengthening the sustainable cancer care system.
He expressed Bangladesh’s keen interest in the upcoming IAEA-WHO imPACT review mission scheduled for November. This mission will provide an opportunity for an evidence-based assessment of the country’s national cancer control capacity and the determination of realistic priorities across the entire cancer care system.
The Science and Technology Minister added that Bangladesh is committed to strengthening research and development activities while expanding opportunities for international education, training, fellowships, and collaborative research for students, scientists, and researchers. Developing skilled human resources and forging knowledge-based partnerships are essential to ensuring that the benefits of nuclear science and technology reach the people in the long run.
He stated that the government aims to establish a more integrated, equitable, and sustainable cancer treatment system in Bangladesh. Through this initiative, the benefits of nuclear science and technology must be extended to those who need them most.
The Science and Technology Minister expressed firm resolve to transform the commitments of the ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative into tangible and lasting benefits for the people of Bangladesh by working closely with the IAEA and its partners.
