Representatives from various international and national organizations also spoke at the event, reinforcing the global significance of volunteerism. Experts from academic and from humanitarian fields also shared insights on the transformative impact of volunteerism.
The Bangladeshi government is gearing up to implement a comprehensive policy aimed at fostering volunteerism among individuals of all ages, both locally and internationally. The initiative, intended to enhance societal welfare, was announced by Relief and Disaster Management Secretary Kamrul Hasan during an event celebrating World Volunteer Day 2024 at Dhaka University.
Organized by Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) Bangladesh, the event focused on this year’s theme, “Everything for Everyone,” highlighting the universal value of volunteerism. Speaking at the gathering, Hasan emphasized the critical role volunteers play in disaster management.
“Our volunteers have been instrumental in disaster response. Without their dedication, many successes would have been unattainable,” he noted.
The event also saw the Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan, inaugurate the celebrations, during which 21 exemplary volunteers were honoured for their contributions.
Unifying Volunteer Efforts
VSO Bangladesh Country Director Khabirul Haque Kamal underscored the importance of unified volunteer efforts to drive national prosperity. He highlighted that coordinated volunteerism can address pressing challenges and build a resilient society.
The Directorate of Youth Development, represented by Manikhar Rahman, stressed the government’s efforts to collaborate with NGOs to provide training for 900,000 individuals, enabling them to effectively contribute to volunteer initiatives.
Global and National Collaboration
Representatives from various international and national organizations also spoke at the event, reinforcing the global significance of volunteerism. Among the speakers were Swedish Embassy representative Nyoka Martinez Backstrom, Dutch Ambassador Andre Carstens, UNFPA Country Representative Masaki Watabe, and National Youth Forum President Dr. Arman Hossain.
Experts from academic and humanitarian fields, such as Mohammad Moniruzzaman Khan, Director of the Institute of Disaster Management and Vulnerability Studies, and Dr. Rudaba Khandaker, Country Director of the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, shared insights on the transformative impact of volunteerism.
Md. Shafiqur Rahman, VSO Bangladesh Project Manager, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for structured volunteer initiatives to address societal challenges and build resilience.
A Path Toward National Progress
The government’s upcoming policy aims to streamline and promote volunteer activities as a pathway to achieving sustainable development and societal wellbeing. With international support and local dedication, Bangladesh seeks to harness the spirit of volunteerism as a cornerstone for progress.
The initiative reflects the country’s commitment to fostering a culture of service and collaboration, demonstrating how volunteerism can contribute to a more inclusive and resilient future.
