Dhaka:Ramon Magsaysay Award-2026 recipient and Friendship Founder Runa Khan met with Deputy Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad, Barrister Kayser Kamal, at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. During the meeting, Khan received congratulations from the Deputy Speaker for her international recognition.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Deputy Speaker expressed pride in Khan's achievement, emphasizing that international acknowledgment of efforts in human welfare and social development should inspire others. The discussion covered a range of topics, including socioeconomic development, public welfare activities, and the role of efforts to improve living standards in disadvantaged communities.
Barrister Kayser Kamal highlighted the challenges faced by the people in his home district of Netrokona, particularly those living in the haor regions. He noted the deprivation of basic facilities such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, exacerbated by poor communication systems and lack of infrastructure. Kamal suggested the establishment of a satellite hospital and water ambulances to improve healthcare access.
He further discussed the historical self-sufficiency in food production of the region and the untapped potential due to inadequate management and initiatives. He called for the involvement of genuine fishermen in managing water bodies to ensure their rights and improve local nutrition and food security. Kamal proposed enhancing educational infrastructure to provide better learning environments for local students.
The Deputy Speaker outlined the natural and economic potential of the haor areas, advocating for planned development initiatives in fisheries, agriculture, and tourism to create employment opportunities. He urged the formation of a special task force to manage natural resources and protect local rights, viewing the haor regions as vital to the national economy and biodiversity.
Runa Khan commended the Deputy Speaker's dedication to enhancing living standards in the haor areas, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in addressing the needs of disadvantaged communities. She assured that Friendship would support initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, education, and employment opportunities in Netrokona, pledging to work collaboratively with stakeholders.
Officials from Friendship and the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat attended the meeting.