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Friday | 17 January 2025 | Epaper
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A pioneer of our integrated rural development model

Published : Friday, 17 January, 2025 at 12:00 AM  Count : 89
HARIPADA BHOWMIK
Aziz-ul Haq, a visionary leader and advocate for sustainable development, played a pivotal role in shaping rural development, poverty alleviation, and community empowerment in Bangladesh and beyond. Through his groundbreaking initiatives and unwavering dedication, he left an indelible mark on integrated rural development, agricultural innovation, and humanitarian efforts.  

As the Director of the Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD) in Cumilla, Aziz-ul Haq developed and implemented the Integrated Rural Development (IRD) model, which became a cornerstone for rural progress in Pakistan and later Bangladesh. The IRD model focused on poverty alleviation, distributive justice, and economic growth.  

Approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), this model was later implemented nationwide through the Bangladesh Rural Development Board (BRDB). Under his leadership, BARD emphasised training programmes in human resource development, participatory planning, and project management, addressing critical areas such as gender equity, disaster management, and environmental sustainability.  

As the founding Director General of CIRDAP (1979-1984), Aziz-ul Haq made remarkable contributions to strengthening rural development across Asia and the Pacific. CIRDAP, born from the recommendations of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Conference of 1974, became a regional hub for research, training, and knowledge sharing in rural development. 
 
During his tenure, CIRDAP initiated numerous training programmes, research projects, and policy dialogues to promote best practices in rural development. Aziz-ul Haq emphasised collaboration among member countries to address shared challenges and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities.  

After retiring from government service, Aziz-ul Haq served as a Special Advisor to UNICEF Bangladesh (1974-1976). His notable contribution was the introduction of the school kitchen garden programme, aimed at addressing child malnutrition. This innovative initiative integrated nutrition education with practical food production, benefiting countless children and their families. For his outstanding service, he was awarded the 'UNICEF Gold Medal'. 

As the Minister of Agriculture and Forests of Bangladesh, Aziz-ul Haq prioritised community development and poverty alleviation. He championed projects that increased crop yields, diversified income sources, and improved food security. His forward-thinking approach helped lay the foundation for modern agricultural practices in the country.  

Aziz-ul Haq was elected as the Rotary District Governor for Bangladesh in 1984-85, leading impactful initiatives through Rotary International. He played a key role in implementing four significant Health, Hunger, and Humanity (3H) projects. 
  
For his exemplary service, Aziz-ul Haq was honored as a "Candle of Rotary" during the 75th anniversary of the Rotary Foundation in Orlando, USA, in 1992. 
 
Aziz-ul Haq's efforts contributed significantly to reducing poverty in Bangladesh. By the turn of the century, general poverty had declined from over 80% at independence to less than 25% by 2016, with extreme poverty dropping from 34.3% in 2000 to 12.9% in 2016. 
 
His vision extended beyond poverty reduction to addressing exclusion and marginalization. He believed that targeted interventions for the most disadvantaged groups were essential to achieving equitable progress.  

Despite his extraordinary achievements, Aziz-ul Haq remained a humble and compassionate individual. He cared deeply for the helpless and disadvantaged, paying respect to elders and advocating for dignity and equality in society.  

He firmly believed that in a developing country, achieving tangible results was far more valuable than focusing on unfinished tasks. His commitment to action over showmanship defined his leadership and legacy.  

Aziz-ul Haq's life was dedicated to empowering rural communities, promoting sustainable development, and alleviating poverty. His pioneering work in integrated rural development, leadership in CIRDAP and Rotary International, and contributions to agriculture and child welfare continue to inspire generations.  

Through his tireless efforts, he proved that one individual's vision and dedication can bring transformative change to millions of lives. Aziz-ul Haq remains a shining example of selfless service and a true friend of the people. 
 
The writer is former Executive Officer (Finance), CIRDAP



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