Dialogue in Khulna Calls for Stronger NGO–Government Collaboration

A policy dialogue with NGO representatives and field administration was held in Khulna today under the project Institutional Strengthening for Promoting Accelerated Transformation (ISPAT), jointly implemented by the NGO Affairs Bureau (NGOAB) under the Chief Adviser's Office and UNDP Bangladesh, with support from the Australian High Commission, Dhaka.

The dialogue brought together more than 70 participants from NGOs, local administration, and development partners to discuss ways to enhance collaboration, improve service delivery, and accelerate digital transformation within the NGO sector.

Md Anwar Hossain, director of NGOAB, who also chaired the event, and Azizul Haque Sarder, project manager of ISPAT, presented an overview of the project's progress. They highlighted key initiatives such as the digitalisation of NGO profiles, the development of an online service portal, and training programmes for NGO and NGOAB officials. They also underscored the creation of a centralised NGO database aimed at strengthening coordination, transparency, and data-driven decision-making.

Speaking as chief guest, Md Daud Miah ndc, director general (additional secretary) of NGOAB, said the Bureau remains committed to simplifying processes through digital transformation. "We want to build a system where every citizen, regardless of background, has equal opportunity and dignity. The Bureau deeply appreciates the valuable work NGOs are doing at the grassroots level, and we remain determined to stand beside them," he said.

Special guest Bitan Kumar Mandal, deputy director (local government) and additional deputy commissioner (general), Khulna, said, "The ISPAT project focuses on important systemic improvements. But we must also prioritise the economic resilience of people in Khulna. When livelihoods are secure, every other form of development naturally follows."

Md Anwar Hossain emphasised the Bureau's dedication to transforming feedback into action. "We will continue to refine policies, strengthen systems, and ensure that this collaboration leads to real impact on the ground," he said.

Syed Haider, first secretary and head of development cooperation at the Australian High Commission, reaffirmed Australia's continued partnership with UNDP and NGOAB. "On behalf of the Australian Government, I reaffirm our commitment to supporting Bangladesh in strengthening governance, creating safe and inclusive digital spaces, and accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals," he said.

Among others, Asif Kashem, senior programme manager, Australian High Commission; Sheela Tasneem Haq, senior governance specialist, UNDP; and Azizul Haque Sarder, project manager of the UNDP–ISPAT Project, attended the dialogue.

During the open discussion, NGO representatives raised key issues including audit costs for small NGOs, fund management, VAT and tax implications, and the need for regular coordination between field and central administrations. Participants also proposed developing a national online platform enabling NGOs to update and access data in real time.