Dhaka: Dhaka University (DU) Development Studies Department today accorded a reception to its professor and former chairman, and now Prime Minister’s Finance and Planning Adviser, Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir. DU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. ABM Obaidul Islam was present at the function as the guest of honor, with Development Studies Department Chairman Professor Dr. Nayeem Sultana presiding at the Muzaffar Ahmed Chowdhury Auditorium on the university campus.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, at the inaugural session, Professor Dr. Mohammed Abu Eusuf of the department highlighted various aspects of Professor Titumir’s life, education, research, and professional career. Former Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan, discussed the development, importance, and role of development studies in Bangladesh’s development process.
Congratulating Professor Titumir on his appointment as the Prime Minister’s Finance and Planning Adviser, Professor Obaidul Islam remarked that Professor Titumir was not only an eminent teacher but also a leading researcher on Bangladesh’s economy and development thinking. He emphasized the importance of having a visionary, honest, and learned personality like Professor Titumir at the policymaking level during a critical juncture of Bangladesh’s economy.
The vice-chancellor elaborated on Bangladesh’s current economic situation, indicating that the country is undergoing a historic transition and facing a new economic reality. He identified major challenges, including bringing macroeconomic stability back, ensuring institutional accountability, reducing inequality, and building a strong foundation for sustainable and inclusive development. Professor Obaidul Islam emphasized the necessity of establishing strong and effective links between academic research and state policymaking for the sustainable transformation of the country.
He praised the Department of Development Studies for its significant role in providing objective research and theoretical guidance to address the country’s economic, social, and environmental challenges. Addressing the country’s economic situation, the vice-chancellor attributed various economic problems, such as a liquidity crisis in the banking sector, persistent inflationary pressure, challenges in debt and revenue management, and pressure on foreign exchange reserves, to the previous fascist government’s rampant corruption. However, he expressed optimism that these crises are not permanent and that Bangladesh could return to a path of high growth through proper policies, research-based decisions, and effective utilization of the country’s vast human resources.
Speaking as the chief guest, Professor Titumir underscored the importance of accountability for individuals entrusted with responsibilities by the public. He emphasized the need for establishing a culture of accountability and the significance of knowledge gained through experience. Professor Titumir highlighted the importance of local realities and folklore knowledge in development and policymaking, stressing that no societal work is insignificant and that a country thrives through the collective efforts of people in diverse professions.
The event was attended by National Professor Dr. Mahbub Ullah, Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) Fellow Professor Dr. Mustafizur Rahman, Dean of DU Social Sciences Faculty Professor Kazi Mohammad Mahbobor Rahman, and former Dean Professor Dr. Taiabur Rahman, among others.