Another step towards e-Governance and digitizing public services 

European Union, along with the partnership with the Cabinet Division and ICT Division of the Government of Bangladesh, is taking initiatives in advancing digital transformation agenda through the project titled as ‘Effective Governance: Accelerating e-Government and Digital Public Services in Bangladesh’.

Ministry of Information and Technology informed in a press release on Monday that, It focusses three main components: the initiative addresses Government-to-Government (G2G), Government-to-Employees (G2E). and Government-to-Citizens (G2C). 

This project will enhance coordination among ministries through the interoperability frameworks aligning with Bangladesh National Digital Architecture. It aims to strengthen civil servants through digital governance training, to improve the quality and inclusiveness of public services for all, particularly women, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable groups.

Dr. Michal Krejza, Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Bangladesh, highlighted the EU's strong support for Bangladesh's digital journey.

He stated that this project will ensure more efficient public services, reaching citizens more effectively across the country.

Mr. Shish Haidar Chowdhury, Secretary to the ICT Division, spoke about the significance of the project, outlining its key goals that under G2G, we aim to improve inter-ministerial coordination through the National Digital Architecture, to enhance data exchange and ICT procurement frameworks. For G2E, we are focusing on building the capacity of civil servants with digital governance curricula and specialized training in ICT procurement. And under G2C, we aim to ensure inclusive access to public services by reducing the digital divide and improving citizen engagement with digital platforms.

Mr. Md. Mahmudul Hossain Khan, Secretary, Coordination & Reforms, Cabinet Division shared his experience in digital governance, stressing that this project will improve government's transparency and efficiency.

ICT Policy Adviser Faiz Taiyeb delivered a keynote presentation on 'Catalyzing Bangladesh's Digital Future', highlighting the importance of breaking down silos both within and between ministries. 

He stressed the need for establishing an authentication layer to ensure cohesion in public services. 

Mr. Taiyeb encouraged development partners to adopt this approach in their future projects in Bangladesh as well.

Additionally, he proposed the creation of a data commission to enhance the effic of public-facing services. He concluded his speech by underscoring the readiness potential of the country's youth population to drive the digital transformation forward.

Key Speakers from EUD, British Council, Estonian Govt. also emphasized effective governance to ensure better public services to the citizens of Bangladesh.

The e-Governance Academy of Estonia and the British Council will provide critical expertise in ensuring successful outcomes as implementing partners of this project with a view to attain desired digital transformation. 

This initiative marks a significant step towards building a transparent, efficient and citizen-focused governance framework, reinforcing Bangladesh's commitment to a digitally empowered future.