NSU VC calls for inclusive transformation at economic forum in Turkey

Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, vice chancellor of North South University (NSU) has emphasised the urgent need for inclusive development and stronger global collaboration to tackle the growing inequalities fueled by rapid economic transformation.

He said these while delivering the keynote address at the Palandöken Economic Forum 2025 in Erzurum city in Turkey, on Sunday.

The NSU VC, who is also the chairman of the board of directors of Grameen Bank, illustrated how microfinance initiatives have empowered millions — particularly women— by providing access to financial resources without traditional barriers like collateral.

Highlighting real-life impacts, Professor Chowdhury shared the story of Rahima from Rangpur, whose small poultry venture evolved into an international business, showcasing the transformative power of inclusive finance.

His speech, titled "Managing and Reducing Poverty in the Age of Transformation," resonated strongly with the international audience, says a media release.

The session, "Inequalities Created by the Transformational Period: Global Cooperation and Strategies Needed for a Sustainable Future," was moderated by Ayşe Süberker, senior presenter at Habertürk. distinguished panelists included Tasnim Atatrah, World Health Organization Representative to Turkey; Fayq Al Akayleh, academic and AACSB team leader from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Merve Safa Kavakcı, first deputy secretary general of the Organization of Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC); and Dipuo Letsatsi-Duba, ambassador of South Africa to Turkey.

The forum opened with a special video address from H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, president of the Republic of Turkey, featured the attendance of H.E. Cevdet Yılmaz, vice president of Turkey, and Binali Yıldırım, former prime minister of Turkey.

However, Mr Chowdhury also issued a caution: despite technological progress, deep disparities persist.

He noted that 1.7 billion people worldwide remain unbanked, and millions lack meaningful internet access, exacerbating the digital divide.

Professor Chowdhury called for urgent global cooperation to ensure technology, trade policies, and financial systems promote inclusion, not exclusion.

Ending his speech with an inspiring message, he quoted Professor Muhammad Yunus:

"Poverty is not created by poor people. It is created by the institutions and systems we design."

Earlier at the event, Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury participated in an exclusive lunchtime presidents' roundtable titled "AI Research Leadership," held at the Macau University of Science and Technology in collaboration with Tsinghua University.