Speakers

Nutrition Summit 2025

Dr. Zeba Mahmud

Country Manager at Alive & Thrive, FHI 360 & Advisor, Nutrition Solutions

Topic:Progress of SUN activities in South-East Asia to date

Dr. Zeba Mahmud is the Country Manager at Alive & Thrive, FHI 360, and Advisor at Nutrition Solutions. She has held this role for over 8 years, steering strategic nutrition initiatives in Bangladesh. Previously, she served as the Senior National Consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO) for 4 years, focusing on maternal and child nutrition policies. With a career spanning more than 20 years, Dr. Mahmud has contributed significantly to public health and nutrition, including leading the scaling up of infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices in Bangladesh. She holds a master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition. Her professional interests revolve around evidence-based nutrition solutions, capacity building, and fostering multi-sectoral collaborations to combat malnutrition.

Dr Nazma Shaheen

Professor, Institute of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Dhaka

Topic:Readiness of the existing health system to achieve the SUN targets

Dr. Nazma Shaheen is currently serving as a Professor at the Institute of Nutrition and Food Science (INFS), University of Dhaka, with over 33 years of teaching and research experience. Previously, she held the position of Director at INFS. Her distinguished career includes updating the Food Composition Table for Bangladesh, earning her the UGC Award (2013) and INFOODS Success Story Award (2015). Dr. Shaheen holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Kagoshima University, Japan, and a post-doc in Food Functionality from the National Food Research Institute, Tokyo. She specializes in micronutrient malnutrition, food composition, and nutrition research. Passionate about combating malnutrition, her research emphasizes vulnerable groups and the biochemical aspects of nutrition and food safety.

Dr. Mohammed Abu Sayeed

Department of Community Medicine, Ibrahim Medical College

Topic:Nutritional epidemiology: investigating the relationship between diet and health outcomes

Dr. Mohammed Abu Sayeed is currently a faculty member in the Department of Community Medicine at Ibrahim Medical College, where he has contributed for the past 5 years. Previously, he worked at Dhaka Medical College as an Assistant Professor in Community Medicine for 3 years. With over 8 years of professional experience, Dr. Sayeed has established himself as a dedicated academic and public health professional. His significant achievements include publishing impactful research on public health interventions and conducting community outreach programs. He holds an MBBS degree and an MPH in Community Medicine. Dr. Sayeed is primarily interested in epidemiology, health education, and disease prevention strategies, focusing on improving community health outcomes.

Prof. Dr. Sohel Reza Choudhury

Prof. and Head, Dept. of Epidemiology & Research, National Heart Foundation Hospital & Research Institute, Dhaka

Topic:Evaluating the impact of urbanization on dietary changes: findings from nutritional surveillance

Prof. Dr. Sohel Reza Choudhury is the Professor and Head of the Department of Epidemiology & Research at the National Heart Foundation Hospital & Research Institute, Dhaka, where he has served since 2007. Previously, he worked as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Community Medicine at Dhaka Medical College for over a decade. With more than 30 years of professional experience, Dr. Choudhury has made significant contributions to cardiovascular disease prevention and control in Bangladesh. He holds an MBBS degree and advanced training in public health and epidemiology. His primary research interests include non-communicable diseases, hypertension, and tobacco control. Dr. Choudhury's work has influenced national health policies and earned him international recognition in public health.

Dr. Afsana Habib Sheuly

Head of Nutrition and Health, Helen Keller International

Topic:School Meal Programs as an Intervention for Reducing Nutritional Disparities: An Epidemiological Perspective

Dr. Afsana Habib Sheuly is currently serving as the Head of Nutrition and Health at Helen Keller Intl. Bangladesh, where she has worked since 2018. Previously, she was an Epidemiologist at the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital. With over 15 years of experience in public health and nutrition, she has contributed significantly to areas like community nutrition, eye health, and neglected tropical diseases. Dr. Sheuly holds an M. Phil in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Dhaka University (in collaboration with the University of Oslo) and an MPH in Health and Hospital Management from North South University. She has authored 20 national and international publications and is an external reviewer for esteemed journals. Her key interests include adolescent health, NTDs, and sexual and reproductive health.

Shamsun Naher Mohua

Chief Nutrition Officer & Head, Diet and Nutrition Department, BIRDEM

Topic:Nurturing healthy beginnings: the crucial role of maternal nutrition

Shamsun Naher Mohua is currently serving as the Chief Nutritionist and Head of the Department of Diet & Nutrition at BIRDEM Hospital, a position she has held for over 28 years. As President of the Association of Nutritionists and Dietitians, Bangladesh (ANDSS), she has played a pivotal role in promoting nutrition education and professional development in the country. She was previously a Consultant Nutritionist at Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Segunbagicha, and Central Hospital Ltd., Green Road, Dhaka. With extensive experience as a Clinical Dietitian since 1996, her career spans more than 28 years. Among her significant achievements, she has played a pivotal role in developing national dietary guidelines and advancing GDM management in Bangladesh. Academically, she holds an MPH in Community Nutrition from BUHS, M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Food & Nutrition from Dhaka University, and a PGT in Dietetics. Her primary interests include public health nutrition and obesity management.

Dr. Md Iqbal Hossain

Consultant & Former Senior Scientist, Nutrition Research Division, ICDDRB

Topic:Maximizing Windows of Opportunity: critical periods in child nutrition and development

Dr. Md Iqbal Hossain is currently serving as a Consultant in the Nutrition Research Division at ICDDRB. He previously worked as a Senior Scientist in the same division, contributing over two decades of dedicated service to nutrition and public health research. With a career spanning more than 25 years, Dr. Hossain has made significant contributions to the field, including pioneering research on childhood malnutrition and community-based intervention strategies. He holds an advanced degree in public health and a medical degree, equipping him with a robust academic foundation. Dr. Hossain’s primary interests lie in malnutrition, maternal and child health, and sustainable nutrition solutions for vulnerable populations. His work has greatly influenced policy and practice in global health initiatives.

Chowdhury Tasneem Hasin

Chief Nutrition Officer, Dietetics and Nutrition, United Hospital, Dhaka

Topic:Enhancing growth and development: nutrition strategies for preschoolers and school-aged children

Chowdhury Tasneem Hasin is the Chief Clinical Dietitian and Head of the Dietetics and Nutrition Department at United Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. With over 15 years of experience in clinical nutrition, she holds both bachelor's and master's degrees in Nutrition and Food Science from the Institute of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Dhaka. Her expertise encompasses critical care nutrition, weight management, diabetic and renal diet therapy, oncology nutrition, and pediatric diet therapy. Ms. Hasin has contributed to several international publications and is a regular columnist for The Daily Star, where she shares her insights on various nutrition-related topics. She is also an active member of professional organizations, including the Nutrition Society of Bangladesh and the Bangladesh Nutritionist and Dietetics Forum, where she serves as Associate General Secretary. Her dedication to advancing nutritional health and education has made her a respected figure in the field.

Prof Begum Rokeya

Professor of Pharmacology, Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (BUHS)

Topic:Role of nutraceuticals and natural medicine in promoting health and preventing disease: a scientific exploration

Prof. Dr. Begum Rokeya is currently the Dean of the Faculty of Basic Sciences, Head of the Department of Pharmacology, and Research Coordinator at the Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (BUHS), where she has served for over a decade. Previously, she worked as a Senior Research Scientist at BIRDEM for 22 years. With a career spanning more than 30 years, her significant contributions include groundbreaking research in diabetes and pharmacology, earning national and international recognition. Dr. Rokeya holds an MBBS and a PhD in Pharmacology. Her primary research interests focus on diabetes prevention, drug development, and public health interventions. She is widely respected for her dedication to advancing pharmacological research and education in Bangladesh.

Prof. Mohammad Shoeb

Chemistry Department, DU & Member, Bangladesh Food Safety Authority

Topic:Implementing good hygiene practices and HACCP: ensuring food safety and quality control

Professor Dr. Mohammad Shoeb is currently serving as a Member of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA), Ministry of Food, Government of Bangladesh. In this role, he is responsible for formulating food safety regulations, creating awareness, and promoting best practices in food production and processing. Previously, he held various academic and research roles, including faculty positions at the University of Dhaka and collaborative research at international institutions. With over 20 years in his career, Dr. Shoeb has made significant contributions to natural product chemistry, food safety, and environmental chemistry. His academic journey includes a B.Sc. and M.Sc. from the University of Dhaka, a Ph.D. from The Robert Gordon University, and advanced training in several global institutions. He has published over 120 research papers and received multiple international awards, including the IUPAC Young Chemist Award. His primary research interests are in food safety, natural products, and analytical chemistry.

Dr. Sayma Rahman

Senior Consultant, Geriatric Clinic Capio Vårberg Stockholm

Topic:Nutritional approaches in Autism Spectrum Disorder: impact on development and behavior

Dr. Sayma Rahman, MD, MSc, PhD, is a Senior Consultant at the Geriatric Clinic, Capio Vårberg, Stockholm. With over 22 years of experience, she previously served as a Geriatric Specialist Trainee at Sahlgrenska Hospital, Gothenburg, from 2018 to 2024. Her notable achievements include earning a PhD in Immunology from Karolinska Institute, focusing on tuberculosis research, and publishing extensively on tuberculosis, HIV, and immunology. She has received prestigious grants and supervised medical and master’s students in advanced immunology and geriatrics. Academically, she holds an MD, a Master of Biomedicine, and postdoctoral research credentials. Her interests span geriatric medicine, dementia, elderly psychiatry, and exploring the link between inflammation, depression, and Alzheimer’s, alongside mentoring future medical professionals.

Prof Liaquat Ali

Pothikrit Institute of Health Studies, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Topic:Clinical and translational nutrition: connecting research and practice to enhance health outcomes

Professor Liaquat Ali is currently serving as the Director of the Pothikrit Institute of Health Studies, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Before this, he was a senior faculty member at the Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (BUHS), where he worked for over 15 years. With a total career spanning more than three decades, Professor Ali has significantly contributed to public health research and education. Notably, he pioneered studies on diabetes and nutrition in Bangladesh, leading initiatives that enhanced community health outcomes. He holds advanced degrees in public health and biochemistry. Professor Ali is deeply interested in addressing non-communicable diseases, particularly diabetes prevention and management, and promoting community-based health interventions. His work continues to inspire innovations in health policy and education in Bangladesh.

Akhtarun Nahar Alo

Consultant Nutritionist, & Former Head, Diet and Nutrition Department, BIRDEM

Topic:Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) in the management of chronic diseases

Akhtarun Nahar Alo, a renowned clinical nutritionist, has been practicing at Popular Diagnostic Center (Shyamoli, Dhaka) and Advance Hospital (Bonosri, Dhaka) since 1992. She served as the Ex-Chief Nutrition Officer and Head of the Department of Nutrition at BIRDEM from 1983 to 2016, completing 42 years in clinical nutrition. Her significant achievements include preparing Bangladesh’s National Dietary Guidelines and pioneering diabetic-friendly meal plans for Ramadan. With an academic background in nutrition, she has contributed as an examiner and lecturer at Dhaka University, BSMMU, and other institutions. Passionate about diabetes management and nutrition education, she is a prolific writer and an active member of professional and literary organizations, combining expertise in health and creative pursuits.

Dr. Mehjabin Tishan Mahfuz

Assistant Scientist, Nutrition & Clinical Services Division, ICDDRB

Topic:Sports, physical activites and health diet on weight management in child and adults

Dr. Mehjabin Tishan Mahfuz is currently serving at the Nutrition Research Division of icddr,b, focusing on the impact of gut microbiota on nutrition, weight gain, and overall well-being among women and children in Dhaka’s urban slums. Previously, she worked at icddr,b for over a decade, including as Principal Investigator for projects on adolescent female athletes in Bangladesh. With over 12 years of research experience, her significant achievements include leading studies that advance understanding of nutrition and health in underserved populations. Dr. Mahfuz holds a medical degree and a Master’s in Epidemiology. She is deeply interested in exploring the intersection of physical fitness, nutrition, and psychological resilience to optimize athletic performance and promote long-term wellness across populations.

Dr. Md. Mohsin Ali

Public Nutrition and Health Consultant & Advisor, Nutrition Solution

Topic:Growth Monitoring and Promotion (GMP) card: a tool for tracking child development and nutritional status

Dr. Md. Mohsin Ali has been working as an Independent Consultant for the past six years, specializing in urban programming, nutrition program development, advocacy, capacity development, and multisectoral nutrition policies. Prior to this, he worked for 11 years as a Nutrition Programme Specialist at UNICEF Bangladesh, focusing on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), anemia, and urban nutrition policies. With over 35 years of experience in national health and nutrition services, Dr. Mohsin has contributed significantly to major programs like the National Nutrition Program, Vitamin A fortification, and the control of infectious diseases. He holds a strong academic background in nutrition and health. His key interests include nutrition policy development and urban nutrition strategies.

Dr. Quamrun Nahar

Chief Research Officer, BIRDEM

Topic:Food-based dietary guidelines and the application of the plate model in Bangladesh: a framework for balanced nutrition

Dr. Quamrun Nahar is the Chief Research Officer and Coordinator of the Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics (CND) Training Program at BIRDEM General Hospital, where she has been training 300-400 students annually since 2017. With over 28 years of experience in research and academia, she previously served in projects funded by FAO, USAID, EU, and other prestigious organizations. Throughout her career, she has published 34 scientific articles, authored four books, and supervised more than 75 theses. She has also presented her work internationally in nine countries. Dr. Nahar’s significant achievements include developing Bangladesh’s National Dietary Guidelines and conducting impactful research on food security and metabolic syndrome. Her interests lie in nutrition education, diabetes prevention, and dietary health strategies.

Saiqa Siraj

Country Director, Nutrition International, Bangladesh

Topic:Enhancing nutrition, health, and well-being in adolescent girls and women through nutritional interventions and Iron-Folic Acid supplementation

Saiqa Siraj serves as the Country Director of Nutrition International in Bangladesh, overseeing the organization's programs and providing strategic guidance. Before joining Nutrition International, she led the Health, Nutrition, and Population programs at BRAC, offering strategic and implementation guidance to its nutrition interventions. With over 15 years of experience in maternal and child health and nutrition, Saiqa is a trained nutritionist, holding a Master's in Public Health from BRAC University. She is an active advocate for nutrition opportunities for vulnerable communities, having served as the nutrition focal point for organizations like the International Food Policy Research Institute and Save the Children Bangladesh.

Tasnima Mahjabin

Principal Scientific Officer, Bangladesh Institute of Research and Training on Applied Nutrition (BIRTAN)

Topic:Applied nutrition strategies for combating malnutrition in developing countries

Dr. Sharifa Sultana Dipti

Principal Scientist, Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BIRRI)

Topic:Advances in Agriculture and Plant Nutrition: Strategies for Enhancing Crop Growth and Sustainable Farming

Sharifa Sultana Dipti is currently a Principal Scientific Officer in the Grain Quality and Nutrition Division at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), a position she has held since April 2014. Previously, she served as a Senior Scientific Officer at BRRI from 2006 to 2014 and as a Scientific Officer from 1999 to 2006. Her total professional tenure spans over 29 years. A significant achievement includes her contributions to rice research, particularly in biofortification and nutritional studies. Academically, she holds a Ph.D. in Human Nutrition from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, along with advanced degrees in Applied and Food Nutrition. She is particularly interested in rice quality improvement, nutritional enhancement, and public health nutrition.

Dr. Mohammad Mostafa

Member (Public Health and Nutrition), Bangladesh Food Safety Authority

Topic:Food Security, Safety, and Adulteration: Addressing Challenges for a Safe and Sustainable Food Supply

Dr. Mohammad Mostafa is currently serving as Member (Public Health and Nutrition) at the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA), Dhaka. Previously, he worked at BCSIR Laboratories, Dhaka, as Director (Add. Charge) from July 2018 to December 2023 and as Research Coordinator from September 2017 to July 2018. With a career spanning over 29 years, Dr. Mostafa has significantly contributed to scientific research, publishing 42 peer-reviewed papers. He holds B.Sc (Hons), M.Sc, and a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Dhaka. His achievements include ISO-related training in Australia, research fellowships in South Africa and Pakistan, and participation in international programs. Dr. Mostafa’s interests focus on laboratory accreditation, natural products, and advancing food safety and public health.

Dr. Helal Uddin Ahmed

Associate Professor, National Institute of Mental Health & Hospital, Dhaka

Topic:Depression and anxiety in aging: addressing mental health in the elderly population

Dr. Helal Uddin Ahmed, MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), is currently a Professor of Child, Adolescent, and Family Psychiatry at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Dhaka, Bangladesh, where he has been serving since 2013. Previously, he worked briefly as a Temporary Advisor for WHO Bangladesh in 2012, focusing on mental health and substance abuse. With over 24 years of professional experience, Dr. Ahmed has made significant contributions to psychiatry, including receiving the "Prof. Hidayatul Islam Gold Medal Award" in 2013 for his research and dedication. A graduate of Chittagong Medical College (1999), he completed his MD in Psychiatry from BSMMU in 2011. His primary interests include child psychiatry, autism, and neurodevelopmental disorders, complemented by extensive research and advocacy in mental health.