Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury announced today that the government is dedicated to accelerating Bangladesh's digital transformation. The goal is to ensure that public services reach citizens' doorsteps, making service delivery faster, more transparent, cost-effective, and accessible for all.
Digitalisation as a Necessity
Khosru emphasized that technology and digitalisation are indispensable for a country's progress. He noted that digitalisation is essential for service delivery, transparency, cost reduction, and improving the quality of people's daily lives. The minister stated, 'There is no alternative to technology and digitalisation for moving a country forward.'
Comprehensive Digital Ecosystem
The government's overarching goal is to create a comprehensive digital ecosystem that includes every citizen, from businesspeople and professionals to farmers and workers. This initiative aims to ensure that government and financial services can be accessed conveniently from anywhere.
Inclusive Approach to Digitalisation
Khosru highlighted the government's inclusive approach to digitalisation, ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition towards a technology-driven society. The national budget places emphasis on expanding digital literacy and technological capacity among people from all walks of life.
Learning from Global Best Practices
The minister informed the audience that a high-level delegation, including the ICT Adviser and the Governor of Bangladesh Bank, is visiting Estonia to gain insights into advanced digital governance models. Khosru stressed the importance of innovation in the financial sector and the need for institutions to increase public access to online services.
Expanding Outreach and Reducing Physical Visits
Khosru urged banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions to reduce the need for customers to visit offices physically. He suggested assigning dedicated officials to assist clients in using digital platforms and encouraged proactive communication with customers through letters, messages, and awareness campaigns.
Economic Benefits of Digitalisation
The minister pointed out that effective digitalisation would generate enormous economic benefits by saving citizens' time and reducing unnecessary travel. He stressed that digital transformation should be fully implemented across all institutions to make services easily accessible to the public.
