'Budget 2024: Expectations and Achievements' seminar held at DU

A seminar titled 'Budget 2024: Expectations and Achievements' was held at Dhaka University on Tuesday . 

Former planning minister of Bangladesh and current member of parliament MA Mannan addressed the discussion meeting, emphasising the intricate roots of poverty, attributing it to cultural factors.

"Poverty did not develop in a day. There are many cultural reasons behind it," he said.

Mr Mannan also raised concerns about financial leaks outside the revenue stream, urging measures to curb such practices.

He stressed the importance of prudent spending, urging the government to ensure budget allocation aligns with the nation's needs, steering clear of illicit channels.

Advising the government to be more frugal, he said, “Frugality does not mean reducing costs, it means spending properly. The condition of the country can improve only if the money of the small budget is spent sparingly.”

The Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University ASM Maksud Kamal said, “Recently, we have found out that there are about 1100 companies of Bangladeshis in Dubai. Money is being laundered in various countries with such companies. Does the government have information about them? ”

Professor Kamal thinks money laundering is the root of the country's economic problems. 

Mr Kamal also mentioned, “The development of a country requires the development of intelligence and research. However, in this year's budget, about Tk 9 billion have been allocated for Dhaka University, most of which have been allocated for infrastructural development. 

"The country's best university has been allocated only Tk 200 million for research purpose. That is only 2.2 per cent of the university's total budget," he lamented. 

He advocated for increased funding in the research sector to foster meritocracy and drive comprehensive progress.

M Abu Yusuf, director of Center on Budget and Policy of Dhaka University, presented the keynote at the programme. He highlighted various aspects of the budget criticism and success. 

Development Studies Department of Dhaka University Professor Tyebur Rahman, President of Dhaka University Teachers' Association Professor Dr Nizamul Haque Bhuiyan, Member of the National Board of Revenue MM Fazlul Haque, Chairman of Research and Policy Integration for Development MA Razzaq were also present at the discussion. The meeting was chaired by Treasurer of Dhaka University Mumtaz Uddin Ahmed.

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