ADAB stresses coordinated efforts for national development

Anwar Hossain, chairman of the Association of Development Agencies in Bangladesh (ADAB), has emphasised the need for coordinated efforts among the government, NGOs, educational institutions and religious organisations to accelerate the country's development.

He made the remarks while presiding over ADAB's 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the HEED Bangladesh Convention Centre in Mirpur, Dhaka, on Thursday (November 12).

In his welcome address, Anwar Hossain highlighted the need to address various social challenges, including drug abuse, climate change, natural disasters, violence against women and child marriage, as well as to combat corruption.

He expressed optimism that meaningful cooperation among the government, NGOs, educational institutions and religious organisations could play a significant role in the country's development.

At the meeting, the minutes of ADAB's 45th AGM, its annual report and financial statements were presented. Members also reviewed and approved the appointment of an auditor, along with the budget and work plan for the 2026-27 financial year (July 2026 to June 2027).

The meeting also sought members' cooperation in ADAB's ongoing initiative to establish its own permanent office.

During an open discussion, representatives of member organisations proposed holding divisional conferences, strengthening smaller NGOs with support from larger organisations and taking initiatives to facilitate access to corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds.

They also called for expanding training programmes and increasing the visibility of ADAB's activities.

Participants urged ADAB to take a more active role in addressing climate change, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), drug abuse, online gambling, sexual violence and child marriage, as well as promoting communal harmony.

They further stressed the need to strengthen communication, advocacy and lobbying with the NGO Affairs Bureau, the Microcredit Regulatory Authority (MRA) and various government ministries to address issues concerning recognition of NGO activities, access to funding, MRA licensing and tax and VAT exemptions.

Speakers also proposed organising a conference between the Prime Minister and NGO representatives to discuss the sector's challenges and prospects.

More than 200 representatives of ADAB member organisations from across the country attended the AGM.