It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Institute for Integrated Studies on Sundarbans and Coastal Ecosystems (IISSCE) at Khulna University. Situated at the gateway of the world’s largest mangrove forest—the Sundarbans-“UNESCO World Heritage Site”. The Institute serves as a hub for research, education, and innovation dedicated to sustaining the fragile balance between nature and livelihoods in Bangladesh’s coastal region. The Sundarbans and adjacent ecosystems are vital for millions of people yet face severe threats from climate change, salinity intrusion, sea-level rise, and biodiversity loss.

IISSCE was established in December 20, 2018 through approval  of 162nd syndicate meeting of Khulna University with the vision of advancing global knowledge on the invaluable tangible and intangible resources of mangroves and coastal ecosystems. Our mission is to generate and disseminate cutting-edge scientific knowledge on the biophysical attributes of the Sundarbans and coastal ecosystems, and application of knowledge to encourage scientifically and ethically driven management efforts. IISSCE is mandated to offer MS, MPhil, PhD, and postgraduate diploma programs aimed at preparing future leaders to address coastal and environmental challenges.

Our key focus areas include (i) mangrove ecology, biodiversity conservation, (ii) climate change resilience and disaster risk reduction (iii) ecosystem restoration (iv) sustainable livelihoods and community engagement, (v) education and capacity building, and (vi) technological and scientific innovation and (vii) responsible eco-tourism. We aim to integrate scientific research with local and traditional wisdom to promote resilience and sustainability.

Our faculty members and scientists actively collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations on projects supporting conservation, disaster risk reduction, and ecosystem restoration, aligned with national priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and inclusiveness, IISSCE strives to be a center of excellence in interdisciplinary research and education.

I warmly invite students, researchers, policymakers, and development partners to join us in building a resilient and sustainable mangrove and coastal Bangladesh for generations to come.