Dhaka: A new research-oriented institute named the ‘Foundation for Strategic and Development Studies’ was launched here today. The institute aims to function as a think tank, focusing on research in areas such as good governance, national security, development, and policy formulation processes.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the launching ceremony took place at the Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel. The objectives and mission of the institute were outlined by its Chairman, retired Major General Fazle Elahi Akbar. Notable figures addressing the programme included Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, economist Professor Mahbubullah, political scientist Professor Dilara Chowdhury, legal expert Professor Borhan Uddin Khan, and Vice Chancellor of Jahangirnagar University Prof Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan.
The event was attended by prominent military and civilian figures, including Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, and former Army Chiefs Gen Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Huq and Lieutenant General (Retd) M. Nuruddin Khan. Several other retired military officers were also present, highlighting the significance of the occasion.
Key political figures in attendance included BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and standing committee members Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, and Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed. Other attendees were Vice Chairman Air Vice Marshal (retd) Altaf Hossain Chowdhury, advisory council member Ismail Zubiullah, Nagorik Oikkyo President Mahmudur Rahman Manna, and Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher.
The launch also attracted influential media personnel and academics such as the Editor of The Daily Star Mahfuz Anam, Manabzamin editor Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, Editor of Desh Rupantor Kamal Uddin Sabuj, and Open University VC Professor ABM Obaidul Islam. Other distinguished guests included Chairman of Ekushey Television Abdus Salam, Former police chief Ashraful Huda, Chief adviser’s special assistant Monir Haider, and BNP chairperson’s personal secretary ABM Abdus Sattar.
In his closing remarks, Major General M. Abul Kalam expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests for their presence and support, marking the successful launch of the institute.