A discussion meeting and public hearing was held in Bhangura, Pabna, on Saturday to improve the quality of government and private-sector services, ensure transparency and strengthen good governance.
The programme was held at 10am at Briddha Morich Government Primary School in Khan Morich Union, with participation from members of civil society.
Bangladesh Rural Economic Development (BREAD) organised the event under its project titled “Expanding Public Space and Strengthening the Good Governance System Through the Participation of Civic Organisations.” The Bhangura Upazila Youth Development Office provided overall support.
The meeting was chaired by Sri Gyanendra Nath Murali, president of the Community Scorecard and Public Hearing Implementation Committee. Bhangura Upazila Youth Development Officer Md Shamim Hasan addressed the event as the chief guest.
The programme was moderated by Sri Ranjit Basak, general secretary of the Bhangura Upazila Indigenous Cooperative Association. Among others, speakers included BREAD Project Coordinator Md Ashikur Rahman, Dr Dulal Sarkar, president of Mitchmethuir Durga Temple, village head Sribas Murri, Sri Nikhil Basak, Karatkandi Government Primary School teacher Sri Amrit Sarkar, and local community member Anita Rani.
During the open public hearing session, local service recipients, including Krishna Basak, Brishti Rani, Gandhi Basak, Sanjit Singh and Naumi Rani, raised various questions with the guests about service quality, institutional facilities and accountability.
Speakers said active participation by ordinary citizens is essential to improving the quality of government and private-sector services. They also stressed the need to maintain transparency and accountability between the local administration and the public so that people can access the services they need more easily.
The event received funding and support from the European Union, Manusher Jonno Foundation, We Can Bangladesh and Christian Aid. BREAD accountant Abul Kalam Azad coordinated the programme.
Noted journalist Abuzar Giffari, local dignitaries, civil society representatives and members of the local indigenous community also attended the event.
