News Flash
RAJSHAHI, May 21, 2026 (BSS) - A two-day training workshop aimed at raising awareness about the Right to Information (RTI) Act and strengthening youths' practical skills in using the law was held in Rajshahi.
The training was organized by the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA) and took place on Wednesday and Thursday at a restaurant in the Shaheb Bazar area of the city.
A total of 22 young men and women from eight districts of Rajshahi Division took part in the programme.
At the opening session, BELA's Coordinator for Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions, Tanmoy Kumar Sanyal, briefed participants on the RTI Act, the application process, and the responsibilities of concerned authorities.
He said the proper use of the RTI Act to obtain information on issues of public interest can help ensure transparency and accountability in both government and non-government institutions.
BELA Programme and Field Coordinator AMM Mamun shared practical experiences of applying the RTI Act in areas such as environment, land, water, and other public interest issues.
Deputy Director of the Rajshahi District Information Office, Nafeyala Nasrin, spoke on the national and international dimensions of the RTI framework, its challenges, and possible solutions.
The training also discussed challenges in record-keeping and information delivery in government offices, along with barriers citizens face in accessing information and ways to overcome them.
As part of the workshop, participants worked in groups to prepare and submit RTI applications, gaining hands-on experience in the process. An educational skit performed by the trainees was also staged.
At the closing ceremony, RULFAO Executive Director Afzal Hossain said the RTI Act is an effective instrument for ensuring access to information.
He said its proper implementation can help establish transparency and accountability in the state, reduce corruption, and strengthen democratic practices, urging citizens to become more aware of their right to information.
