Dhaka: The Bangladesh Communications Professionals Society (BCPS) is planning to introduce a national-level recognition for outstanding development communication and creative content documenting life-changing stories, initiatives, and social impact by NGOs, INGOs, development partners, and government agencies.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the proposed Devcom Award was discussed at a consultation meeting between a BCPS delegation and Channel i Managing Director Faridur Reza Sagar, Head of Program Harun Or Rashid, and Head of iScreen Mahbub Rahim Udoy at the Channel i conference room. The meeting also explored possible cooperation in communication, media, and creative work, including joint initiatives to develop quality communication content and create opportunities for communication professionals to share their work and experiences.
BCPS Chairperson Tony Michael Gomes led the delegation, which included BCPS Executive Committee members Sahos Mostafiz, Asad Rassel, Nusrat Akther, and Maliha Tabassum. Faridur Reza Sagar emphasized Channel i's involvement in development initiatives and its commitment to development communication as a key aspect of its storytelling. He expressed the channel's desire to recognize good work and encourage future generations to continue this legacy.
The proposed award aims to acknowledge work across various areas of communication and creative practice, though the name, categories, and timing of the award have yet to be finalized. Tony Michael Gomes highlighted the limited recognition that development communication content has received in Bangladesh, despite the significant contributions of professionals in the field. He noted the evolving communication landscape with the rise of digital media, new content formats, and artificial intelligence, emphasizing BCPS's focus on skills development for communication professionals and fostering collaboration with media organizations and development partners.
Established in 2018, BCPS unites professionals working in development communication, media, advocacy, campaigns, public relations, and knowledge management. The organization has conducted several professional development initiatives, including the Development Communications Conclave, Leadership Masterclass, Visual Storytelling Workshop, and CV Writing Sessions. The proposed award is part of BCPS's broader effort to strengthen professional networks and facilitate collaboration among communication professionals, media organizations, and development-sector stakeholders.