The East Delta University's Department of Public Leadership, Management and Governance (DPLMG) has launched its much-anticipated “Policy Dialogue Series,” aiming to foster meaningful policy discussions and idea sharing among various stakeholders for the betterment of society.
The programme was organised on the campus of East Delta University (EDU) on Friday with the vibrant presence of distinguished guests from different fields, marking a significant milestone in shaping the future of Chattogram.
Presided over by EDU Vice-Chancellor Prof M Sekandar Khan, the event featured a keynote speech delivered by Prof Niaz Ahmed Khan, pro-vice-chancellor of Independent University, Bangladesh.
Niaz Ahmed emphasised the pressing need for sustainable urban development policies and their implications for Chattogram, saying, “A lack of coordination exists among the institutions involved in policymaking at various levels, which consequently leads to a lack of accountability.”
He referred to Chattogram as the economic hub of the country and elaborated on the significance of implementing effective monitoring mechanisms in the policymaking of urbanisation.
Renowned panellists, including prominent figures such as Abul Momen, Aameir Alihussain, Syed Mohammad Abu Daud, M Emdadul Islam, Engineer Subhash Chandra Barua, and eminent academics Prof Kazi Shahdat Kabir, Prof Hamidul Huq, Prof Syeda Zarina Hossain, Urban Planner of Chattogram City Corporation Architect Abdullah Al Omar, Valiant Freedom Fighter Farooq E Azam (Bir Pratik), Bureau Chief of Ekushey Television Rafiqul Bahar and Sayeed Al Noman, participated in a thought-provoking discussion.
The dialogue was moderated by DPLMG Chairperson Tasmeem Chowdhury Bonhi.
Sayeed Al Noman, the founding vice-chairman of EDU, emphasised the necessity of formulating a comprehensive and strategic master plan to ensure effective and productive policies in Chattogram.
He put emphasis on the crucial role of proper legislation in facilitating the implementation of such plans.
“While plans may evolve and adapt over time to meet changing needs, it is imperative to undertake urban development projects without delay. Failing to do so would result in an increase in the urban growth without achieving sustainable urban development,” Noman added.
In the concluding speech, EDU VC Sekandar Khan further emphasised the paramount significance of civil society in undertaking multifarious measures to preserve the rich heritage of Chattogram while simultaneously ensuring the city’s sustainable development.
He said such dialogue serves as a unifying force, fostering a platform where diverse voices can be amplified and acknowledged.
Following the panel discussion, alumni of the Master of Public Policy and Leadership programme took the stage to share their success stories, highlighting the programme’s instrumental role in helping them establish rewarding careers in the policy space, read the release.
Prominent guests from various institutions graced the occasion, adding to the event’s significance and fostering an environment of collaboration and learning. Their presence symbolises the collective commitment to address critical policy challenges and drive sustainable development in Chattogram.
As the series unfolds, it promises to spark innovative ideas, foster collaboration, and inspire actionable solutions for the benefit of society.
