WAI 2025: Plenary Speaker announced and WAS-APC Awards program launched

The World Aquaculture Society and the National Organizing Committee of World Aquaculture India 2025 has announced Dr. Modadugu Vijay Gupta as a plenary speaker at World Aquaculture India 2025 (WAI2025), to be held at the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Hyderabad, India, from November 10–13, 2025.

Dr. Gupta has been a global leader in aquaculture research and development for over 50 years, with a strong focus on improving food and nutritional security in developing countries. He has implemented projects and programs across more than 20 countries in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific, with particular emphasis on empowering rural women and landless communities through aquaculture.

Over his distinguished career, Dr. Gupta has served with UN-ESCAP, FAO, the WorldFish Center (CGIAR), and ICAR, and coordinated the International Network for Genetics in Aquaculture (INGA). He has also consulted leading international organizations including the World Bank, ADB, UNDP, USAID, and the Commonwealth Secretariat. His many accolades include the Padma Shri (Government of India), the World Food Prize, the Sunhak Peace Prize, and an Honorary Life Membership of the World Aquaculture Society.

At WAI2025, Dr. Gupta will deliver a keynote address on “Aquaculture Opportunities, Options, and Optimism,” highlighting key challenges and opportunities for the sector.

 

Abstract Submission Deadline Extended
To allow broader participation, the abstract submission deadline has been extended to September 30, 2025. Student submissions will also be eligible for the Asian Pacific Chapter (APC) Awards.

WAS-APC Awards Program
WAS-APC is proud to introduce its Awards Program for WAI2025, recognising excellence in aquaculture research, innovation, and engagement, with a particular focus on students and women in the field. This year features the launch of a new Professional Merit Award, presented alongside the established Student and Women’s Participation Awards. 

 

All awards follow the global WAS framework to ensure fairness, consistency, and recognition across regions.
Award Categories:
• Pre-conference Student Travel Awards (Best Abstracts): 3 awards of USD400 each –
Deadline: September 30, 2025
• Student Presentation & Poster Awards (During the Conference): Prizes ranging from
USD400–600 
• Women’s Participation Travel Awards: 2 awards of USD600 each – Deadline:
September 30, 2025
• Professional Merit Award (New in 2025): Honoring up to two individuals for outstanding
contributions to aquaculture in Asia – Deadline: September 30, 2025

General Eligibility:
Applicants must be current WAS or WAS-APC members. Abstract submission is required for Student Travel Awards. Past winners are not eligible. More Information can be found out at WASAPC website Asian Pacific Chapter | World Aquaculture Society

 

These awards and plenary sessions reflect our commitment to nurturing the next generation of aquaculture professionals, recognizing women’s leadership, and honoring excellence across the industry.