Experts have called for recognizing the role of the private sector in achieving the government's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They said that with the development of the private sector in the country, many companies are undertaking development activities under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. This is related to the objectives of the SDGs. While some organizations have institutionalized CSR activities, many are doing so in isolation. Experts believe that the public and private sectors must work together for the successful achievement of the SDGs.
The speakers said these things in the round table discussion titled 'Private Sector's Role in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals' organized by Ittefaq at 10 am today (October 30). The round table meeting was organized at Majida Begum auditorium of Ittefaq office. Special Correspondent of Dainik Ittefaq Saidul Islam was present as the Chief Guest in the event, Prime Minister's Office Chief Coordinator of SDG Affairs Senior Secretary Zuena Aziz. Joint Secretary (SDG Affairs) Mohammad Monirul Islam presented the keynote speech on the occasion. The speakers were, BAT Bangladesh Head of External Affairs Sheikh Shabab Ahmed, Unilever Director (Corporate Affairs, Partnership and Communications) Shamima Akhter, Suhana and Anis Ahmed Foundation (MGH Group) Assistant Director Bashira Haroon, UNDP Chief Technical Advisor (Strengthening Institutional Capacity for SDGS) ) Fakhrul Ahsan, Geobaal Television CEO and Editor in Chief Syed Ishtiaq Reza, ATN Bangla Chief Executive Editor J.E. Mamun, Bangladesh Economic Association General Secretary Ainul Islam, Bangladesh Shipping Agent Association Director Mohammad Shafiqul Alam Jewel, Daily Ittefaq Political Editor Mainul Alam.
In the speech of the chief guest, Senior Secretary Zuena Aziz said that in the implementation of SDGs, everyone should be brought under the scope of integrated development. Bangladesh is already working on all the goals mentioned in the SDGs. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman worked for the liberation of humanity.
Bangabandhu's demands for the development of marginalized and poor people are relevant to the core issues of the SDGs. We have a commitment from the highest level to the implementation of the SDGs. He said, responsibilities have been divided among the ministries to achieve the 17 goals of SDG. An action plan has been developed. Monitoring is being done to see if the work is being done accordingly.
Pointing out that the private sector is being given importance in terms of growth, he said, the private sector has an important role in the implementation of SDGs. The government will create opportunities for the private sector to play their role.
Joint Secretary of SDG Affairs Mohammad Monirul Islam said in the original article, SDG work has a beginning and no end. Achieving the 17 goals of SDG is a challenge not only for Bangladesh, but for all countries. However, along with economic development, importance should be given to environmental protection. We prioritize achieving goals that are easy to achieve. The government is emphasizing on coordination of work between ministries and related departments. He said that the role of the private sector is important in achieving the SDGs. The private sector should come forward to protect the environment along with profit.
BAT Bangladesh Head of External Affairs Sheikh Shabab Ahmed said, We have been doing business in Bangladesh for 112 years. Along with business, we are also aware of social responsibility. For this reason, various social programs are being taken forward by the company. These programs are directly contributing to the SDG goals. He said that BAT Bangladesh is not only concerned with business but also with the welfare of the people. That is why BAT is carrying out several programs to protect the environment including afforestation, supply of fresh water. According to him, good results can be obtained if the reporting of the private companies that conduct CSR activities is ensured. For this he also mentions a separate platform.
Unilever Director Shamima Akhtar said, We have been working in Bangladesh for more than 60 years. Unilever started with social commitment. Each of the 28 brands has a commitment. He said that the issue of environment is closely related with SDG. Unilever is implementing various programs to protect the environment. This includes removing plastic waste. Initially this work started with Narayanganj City Corporation but later the scope of this program will be increased through Chittagong. He said, Unilever has 42 percent women. There are women in factories too. Only the market system could not involve women in that way. We are trying to increase the participation of women at the marginal level.
Bashira Haroon, Assistant Director of Suhana and Anis Ahmed Foundation said, We are currently conducting several activities. Emphasis is being placed on the development of food, health and education. which complements the various goals of the SDGs. We want a common platform. Where there will be guidelines from the government to make it easier for us to achieve our goals. About the activities of the foundation, he said, in the health sector, setting up of 6 incubators for new born babies in different hospitals, support to 4 orphanages through Vidyananda Foundation, food support during covid, food support during Ramadan, free treatment for pregnant women, child education program in Pawartya Chittagong, good work hotel, free eye treatment, Medicine Bank in Chittagong Medical College
