Renowned economist and public policy analyst Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya spoke at the URP Discipline’s Lecture Theatre. Photo : BSS

KHULNA, Sept 10, 2025 (BSS) – Renowned economist and public policy analyst Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya has emphasized that good governance and effective policy reforms are crucial for Bangladesh’s development journey.

“Sustainable development is not possible without good governance and policy reforms. In particular, Bangladesh needs timely policy interventions to cope with global economic changes and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he said while delivering the keynote speech at a seminar titled “Bangladesh in Transition: Governance, Economy and Policy Reforms” here on Wednesday.

Organized by the Development Studies Discipline of Khulna University (KU), the seminar was held at the URP Discipline’s Lecture Theatre.

Highlighting the importance of policy transformation, he said reforms must begin with conceptual clarity—identifying problems, setting priorities, and translating ideas into actionable strategies.

He further stressed that a democratic environment, freedom of the press, and active stakeholder participation are indispensable for meaningful reforms.

“Reforms cannot be achieved by any individual or institution alone, it is a collective process,” he remarked, adding that a progressive political settlement is essential to strengthen reform coalitions.

Special emphasis should also be placed on uplifting marginalized communities, he added.

Speaking as the chief guest, KU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Rezual Karim stated that strengthening governance and reforming policies in line with contemporary needs are vital to accelerating Bangladesh’s progress.

He also highlighted the role of higher education, research, and knowledge creation in preparing the new generation as skilled human resources.

Dr. Kazi Humayun Kabir, Head of the Development Studies Discipline, presided over the event, while Professor Sheikh Sharafat Hossain, Dean of the School of Social Sciences, addressed it as the special guest.

Associate Professor Md. Jobayer Hossain delivered the welcome speech, while Assistant Professor Farhana Haque and Lecturer Irene Azhar Urmi conducted the program.

Faculty members, along with a large number of students and teachers from different batches, were present at the seminar.