The panel discussion titled “Prospects and Challenges of the RMG Sector of Bangladesh” was held as part of TEX-FEST 2026 on November 1, 2026, at 11.30AM- 1 PM at the multipurpose room of Green University of Bangladesh (GUB). The session was moderated by Mr. Md. Mazharul Helal, Faculty Member of the Department of Textile Engineering, GUB, who effectively guided the discussion by raising relevant questions and encouraging the panelists to share their academic and industrial perspectives. The panel featured Prof. Dr. Khawza Iftekhar Uddin Ahmed, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of GUB; Prof. Dr. Ummul Khair Fatema, Head of the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX); Engr. A.S.M. Tareq Amin, Founder and CEO of Textile Today Innovation Hub and Editor & Publisher of Bangladesh Textile Today; and Engr. Dewan Mahbub Kamran, Executive Director (Operations) of Pretty Group. The discussion covered major challenges and opportunities in the RMG sector, including rising labour and energy costs, automation and artificial intelligence, sustainable energy, product diversification, local raw-material utilization, industrial planning, and the need for stronger industry–academia collaboration. The panelists also highlighted the importance of modernizing academic curricula, promoting industry-oriented research, and developing practical skills to prepare graduates for evolving industrial demands. Mr. Fayzur Rahman, Treasurer of GUB, attended as the Special Guest and emphasized strengthening university–industry relationships. Prof. Dr. Mohammad Shorif Uddin, Vice-Chancellor of GUB, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and, in his concluding remarks, appreciated the panelists' valuable insights and acknowledged the importance of the discussion in addressing contemporary industrial and academic challenges. Finally, Prof. Dr. Nitai Chandra Sutradhar, Distinguished Professor and Chairperson of the Department of Textile Engineering, GUB, concluded the session with a vote of thanks, expressing sincere appreciation to the panelists, distinguished guests, organizers, and participants. Overall, the discussion ended with a shared understanding that sustainable growth and the global competitiveness of Bangladesh's RMG sector require collective efforts, innovation, strategic planning, and stronger collaboration between academia and industry.