Professor Muzaffar Ahmad, Chairman, Transparency International Bangladesh, Professor Dr. Shakhwat Ali Khan of the Journalism Department, Dhaka University, Mr. Shahidudzzaman, Editor of News Network, young leaders of Bangladesh, ladies and gentlemen. It is a great pleasure for me to be here today at this prize ceremony, organized by News Network.
Last year the World Bank awarded funds to seven NGOs and civil society organizations in Bangladesh under its Small Grants Program. This is a part of the Bank’s strategy to promote dialogue and disseminate information about development in forums outside its own activities. One of the grants was awarded to News Network to support its ‘Youth in Good Governance” project, of which the essay writing competition, -- “Good Governance: My Thoughts,” -- was a part.
I am delighted that so many young people from all over Bangladesh took part in the competition. I congratulate all those who participated and a special congratulation goes to the 10 winners.
What was really impressive about so many of the essays was not just their ability to come to terms with academic concepts, - - but the way in which they put forward practical solutions. These essays weren’t just a list of the ills of corruption, nepotism and the failures of the rule of law. Rather, they set out clear ideas about how to create a better society -- a better Bangladesh.
We at the World Bank share many of the same ideas, be it strengthening local government, civil service reforms or increased transparency and accountability. Good governance is not the end in itself; it is a way of creating the environment to achieve other goals. As one of the winners, Miraj Hossen, states, - - without good governance the benefits of public programs will not reach their targets, especially the poor.
As several of the writers also point out, the concept of governance is not new; it is as old as human civilization. Good governance is something all societies strive towards. Bangladesh is not alone in attempting to tackle the problems of poor public services and corruption.
In her winning essay, Jubaida Raushan states that many poor countries have started their journey to good governance and sound economic growth with fragile institutions. I am convinced that in Bangladesh this journey is now underway. However to ensure success on this journey, institutions must be strengthened. That is why strengthening Bangladesh’s core governance processes and institutions is one of the key goals of the World Bank’s Country Assistance Strategy that will guide our operations here during the coming years.
The World Bank is proud to be associated with News Network’s efforts to enhance the voice of young people in the development process. The small grant program is one way in which the Bank can reach out and build links with NGOs and civil society. Involving people in reform and listening to what they say, is an effective way of achieving sustainable economic and social benefits.
Hearing the speakers here today has once again convinced me of the creativeness and enthusiasm of young Bangladeshis. I urge the winners, indeed all the competition participants, to become torch bearers of good governance in Bangladesh. -- Thank you.
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