The government has plan to equip 500 post offices across the country with smart service points. As part of modernizing postal services, such initiative is being taken.
State Minister for Posts, Telecommunication, and Information Technology, Zunaid Ahmed Palak said this after a meeting with European Union (EU) resident representative Charles Whitley at the Secretariat on Tuesday.
Palak said, “There are 500 post offices strategically located in districts and upazila headquarters, and these will be transformed into smart service points. This initiative, with a project cost of Tk 49 crore, aims to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of post office services for citizens.”
Addressing ongoing complications with the birth registration server, Palak highlighted the ICT Ministry's commitment to resolving issues.
He said, “We have provided suggestions and recommendations on this matter. With the new government in place, we plan to discuss and follow up on these suggestions with Local Government Minister Tajul Islam to improve the birth registration process.”
In regard to the meeting with EU representative Charles Whitley, the state minister informed journalists that the European Union has been a steadfast supporter, providing technology, knowledge, and various forms of assistance.
He shared insights into the EU's commitment to support Bangladesh's new vision under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, particularly in implementing the Smart Bangladesh Vision 2041.
The EU is set to contribute financial support and offer technology and know-how to establish a smart government in alignment with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's vision. State Minister Palak disclosed three project proposals presented to Charles Whitley during the meeting.
Firstly, addressing climate change, the European Investment Bank (EIB) is already providing USD 500 million in financial support, with an additional commitment of $1 billion in the future. Secondly, a project proposal for e-waste management, with a budget of 200 million euros, was introduced. Lastly, a Digital Island project aimed at providing broadband connectivity to various islands, river regions, and rural areas was discussed, with an offer of around 100 million euros in financing.
Palak highlighted the government's intention to collaborate with the EU on these transformative projects, and these proposals are expected to be facilitated through the Financial Relations Department.
