Women powering BD’s progress, Dipu Moni tells AmCham

Social Welfare Minister Dr Dipu Moni said women are powering progress in Bangladesh as a potential force working on many initiatives taken by the government to enhance socio-economic growth.

She made the observation while speaking as chief guest at a seminar titled "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress" hosted by American Chamber of Commerce (Amcham) Bangladesh at a city hotel on Sunday.

AmCham president Syed Ershad Ahmed chaired the session in an interactive panel discussion in which Helen LaFave, Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy in Bangladesh was special guest.

Nafriza Shayma, joint secretary in the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Sonia Bashir Kabir, founder and managing partner, SBK Tech Ventures and Sarah Ali, managing director, FCB Bitopi took part in discussion as panelists.

Dipu Moni said the government has taken Anti sexual harassment measures all over the country. Women Job dropout are caused mainly due to conflicts between office works and family responsibilities, she said.

She said, "Currently our women are visible everywhere in different tiers including foreign ministry, aviation pilot and policy making. They are showing their eligibility and skills."

The AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed said, Bangladeshs women education rates are soaring, with female literacy reaching 72.82 per cent. This empowered workforce is driving economic growth.

He said, "Women are making their mark in agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Participation rates are up from 36 per cent to 43 per cent, a significant jump."

The corporate world is seeing more women leaders than ever before. From CEOs to entrepreneurs, they e contributing substantially to the countrys GDP, he said.

The AmCham president said the government policies are supporting this progress. Bangladesh ranks 59th globally in gender parity as per  World Economic Forum report.

Challenges like pandemics and inflation remain, but Bangladesh is committed to womens empowerment. Investing in women development is key to their brighter future and it is happening, he said.

Ahmed said Bangladeshs women are leading the way, breaking barriers and building a more equitable society.