The Department of Economics, under the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) at the American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB), organized a seminar titled “Learning the Experiences of Microfinance in Bangladesh” on November 21, 2024, at the AIUB Media Studio.
The event was inaugurated with a welcome speech by Dr. Faria Sultana, Head of the Department of Economics. The seminar featured distinguished speaker Mr. Arinjoy Dhar, Senior Director of Microfinance at BRAC, and was graced by the presence of Prof. Dr. Saiful Islam, Vice Chancellor of AIUB, as Chief Guest.
Mr. Dhar’s presentation highlighted how microfinance has been a transformative tool for poverty alleviation and economic empowerment in Bangladesh, with BRAC as a leading pioneer. He emphasized BRAC Microfinance’s success in tailoring financial products like microloans, savings options, and insurance services to meet the needs of low-income communities. These efforts have empowered women, fostered entrepreneurship, and improved livelihoods.
Beyond financial services, Mr. Dhar underscored BRAC’s integrated approach, which combines microfinance with education, healthcare, and skill development, creating a holistic model for community upliftment. This strategy ensures beneficiaries are both financially empowered and equipped to address broader socio-economic challenges.
Following the presentation, an engaging open-floor discussion allowed students and faculty members to interact with the speaker, sharing their queries and thoughts.
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Dr. Tazul Islam, Dean of FASS, and an inspiring address by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Saiful Islam. A crest and token of appreciation were presented to Mr. Dhar by the Vice Chancellor.
The event, moderated by Ms. Samia Jahan, Sessional Lecturer of Economics, was attended by faculty members from various departments and an enthusiastic audience of students, reinforcing AIUB’s commitment to fostering meaningful learning experiences.
Partnerships
