UAP and CGS Host Dialogue on Proposed National Budget FY 2026-27
University of Asia Pacific (UAP), in collaboration with the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS), organized a high-level dialogue titled "The Fiscal Compass 2026: Beyond the Numbers, Shaping Bangladesh's Future" at the UAP Auditorium on 22 June 2026 (Monday) to discuss the proposed National Budget for FY 2026-2027.
The event brought together policymakers, economists, academics, business leaders, and financial experts to exchange views on the country's fiscal priorities, economic governance, investment climate, and pathways to sustainable growth.
Mr. Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Minister of Finance and Planning of Bangladesh, attended the program as the Guest of Honor. Delivering the keynote address, Professor Dr. M. A. Baqui Khalily, Dean, School of Business, University of Asia Pacific, highlighted key aspects of the proposed budget and its implications for Bangladesh's economic development. The session was moderated by Mr. Zillur Rahman, President, Centre for Governance Studies (CGS).
The dialogue featured a distinguished panel comprising Mr. K M Mozibul Hoque, Chairman, Board of Trustees, University of Asia Pacific; Prof. Dr. Mohiuddin Ahmed Bhuiyan, Acting Vice Chancellor, University of Asia Pacific; Dr. Selim Jahan, Economist and Professorial Fellow, BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD); Mr. Mamun Rashid, Economist and Banker; Dr. Mohammad Mainul Islam, Dean (Acting), Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Dhaka; Ms. Simeen Rahman, Group CEO, Transcom Limited; Mr. Anwar-Ul Alam Chowdhury Parvez, President, Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI) and Chairman, Evince Group; Dr. Mohammad Abdur Razzaque, Economist and Chairman, Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID); Mr. Parvez Karim Abbasi, Executive Director, CGS and Economist; Dr. Mahmood Osman Imam, Professor of Finance and Dean (Acting), Faculty of Business Studies, University of Dhaka; Mr. Mahtab Osmani, Deputy Managing Director, Bank Asia and Director, CFA Society Bangladesh; and Dr. Md. Sajjad Hossain Bhuiyan, Chairman, Financial Reporting Council, Ministry of Finance, Government of Bangladesh.
Speakers emphasized the importance of strengthening fiscal discipline, improving public expenditure management, fostering private-sector investment, enhancing competitiveness, and ensuring inclusive and sustainable economic growth. They also discussed the challenges and opportunities presented by the proposed budget in the context of Bangladesh's evolving economic landscape.
The dialogue concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, allowing participants to share perspectives and recommendations on the country's economic future.
The organizers noted that the event served as an important platform for constructive policy discussion and stakeholder engagement, contributing to informed discourse on Bangladesh's development priorities.