BRAC University hosts “Policy Dialogue on Financial and Economic Reforms in Bangladesh”

BRAC Business School of BRAC University organised a policy dialogue titled "Policy Dialogue on Financial and Economic Reforms in Bangladesh" on November 16 at its Merul Badda Campus. The event brought together prominent policymakers, financial leaders, industry experts, and academics for an in-depth exploration of critical reforms needed to strengthen Bangladesh's financial landscape.

The event commenced with an opening plenary session, "Actionable Financial and Economic Policies for an Inclusive, Equitable, and Prosperous Bangladesh". Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, Advisor for Finance and Science & Technology to the Interim Government, delivered the keynote address as the Chief Guest. Special guests included Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya, Distinguished Fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD); Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor, BRAC University; Selim RF Hussain, CEO and Managing Director of BRAC Bank PLC; and Farzana Lalarukh, Commissioner, Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission.

Prof. Mujibul Haque, Acting Dean of BRAC Business School, opened the session by highlighting BRAC University's dedication to nation-building.

Dr Salehuddin stated that the administration has taken charge during a critical time, tasked with driving reforms, particularly in the financial sector. He noted that the economic damage is unprecedented, making reform urgent and essential.

He added that effective reform requires a strategic approach that benefits the grassroots. He noted that the interim government's reforms will leave a lasting footprint for future policymakers, assuring that the administration is committed to stabilising and advancing the economy.

Dr Bhattacharya commended BRAC University students for their inspiring role in the July movement, emphasising their crucial contributions toward a more inclusive Bangladesh. He also warned that reforms would fail without market stability, cautioning that economic discontent could trigger widespread public anger. He paid tribute to Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, the founder of BRAC University and BRAC, stating that Sir Fazle's visionary work continues to inspire both him and the nation.

Farzana Lalarukh highlighted the pressing issue of trust deficits in the capital market. Selim RF Hussain stressed that central banks must act as strict enforcers to ensure successful reform implementation.

Prof. Syed Ferhat emphasised that today's Bangladesh is a gift, and it is essential to ensure its sustainability. He highlighted financial reform as a key area that requires attention. He also noted that BRAC University's initiative underscores its commitment to becoming a leading academic institution driving efforts for meaningful reform.

Throughout the day-long event, insightful panel discussions featured key industry experts, including Naser Ezaz Bijoy, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Bangladesh; Humaira Azam, Managing Director of LankaBangla Finance PLC; A B Mirza Azizul Islam, Professor at BRAC University and former Caretaker Government Advisor; Md Abdur Rahman Khan, Chairman of the National Board of Revenue (NBR); Dr Selim Raihan, Executive Director of SANEM; and Michael Trueblood, Director of Economic Growth and Governance, USAID, among others.