Centralization approach is a constraint for CMSMEs development in Bangladesh, said Dr. Mashiur Rahman, Economic Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister in a webinar.
He also laid importance on regional connectivity for an inclusive, efficient and balanced economic development of the country.
The webinar titled “Closing Ceremony of the Eight Divisional Webinars and CMSMEs in Bangladesh: Journey, Challenges and Future Direction-Khulna Division” was organised by Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship (ICE) Center of University of Dhaka.
The program was organised as part of its REVIVE Project, a joint collaboration of ICE Center and UNDP Bangladesh.
Mentioning the necessity of linkage for both large enterprises and CMSMEs, he put focus on the huge pressure on the only port in Khulna - Mongla port.
He also assured that this will ease with the operation of Payra Port. Dr. Rahman mentioned the possibilities in fishing and fisheries surplus because of reduced international demand.
Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Md. Sirazul Islam, PMO; and Founder Director & Head of News at Channel i and Vice-President, Dhaka University Alumni Association (DUAA), Shykh Seraj, attended the sessions as Special Guests of the program.
Dr. Momtazuddin Ahmed, Honorary Professor, University of Dhaka attended as the keynote speaker for the program.
Other discussants include, Assistant Country Representatives of UNDP in Bangladesh, Md. Khurshid Alam; President of Khulna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kazi Aminul Haque; and Chief Executive Officer of Khulna City Corporation (KCC), Palash Kanti Bala; were present in the webinar. The session was presided by Dr. Khondokar Bazlul Haque, Vice-Chairman of ICE Center and moderated by Md. Rashedur Rahman, Executive Director, ICE Center.
Md. Sirazul Islam, Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) emphasized the importance of Industry-Academia collaboration towards Economic Independence of Bangladesh and requested University of Dhaka to play the leading role like it has done in every national crisis.
He also requested to develop database of rural and urban entrepreneurs; urged to ignite the inner potentials of students, and hope that a planned effort after completion of the Padma Bridge will significantly improve the business environment of Bangladesh.
Shykh Seraj, Founder Director & Head of News at Channel i and Vice-President, Dhaka University Alumni Association (DUAA), Shykh Seraj appreciated ICE Center for bringing “EMPATHY” and role of YOUTH into the policy discussions.
Md. Khurshid Alam, UNDP while appreciating the government for the stimulus package efforts, focused on the engagement of youth during crisis time, importance empathy, technological supports, mentorship and training of CMSMEs specially in vulnerable areas of the country.
Executive Director of ICE Center, Md. Rashedur Rahman shared the virtual project REVIVE’s activities and outcome, and hope that the outcomes of the project, if implemented can uplift the CMSMEs in Bangladesh towards an Innovation Driven Entrepreneurial Bangladesh.