A Historical Milestone in Institutional Development
The CITYNET Bangladesh National Chapter established in 1995 is CITYNET’s oldest chapter. However, after more than a decade of inactivity, the chapter has embarked on a new phase in its development. On 29 March 2011, all National Chapter members in Bangladesh affirmed their commitment of their chapter’s development at the historical chapter meeting.
Chaired by the Chief Executive Officer of Dhaka City Corporation (DCC), Mr. Md. Abul Kalam Azad, Chapter members agreed to formalise an organisational structure, comprising the Mayor of Dhaka as President, the Mayor of Khulna and Rajshahi as Vice-Presidents and CUS as Auditor. The body will be in effect until 30 June 2012 when a formalised election system will be established. Furthermore, Mr. Md. A.K. Azad was appointed as the Secretary-General and Dr. Tariq Bin Yousuf from DCC as Programme Manager. All member organisations will nominate one focal point for regular communication. The Chapter Secretariat will be set up at the DCC which will also be supported by voluntary organisations. CUS has agreed to administer the database of chapter members. Members are expected to meet twice a year.
During the meeting Mr. Md. Sirazul Islam and Dr. Tariq Bin Yousuf of DCC gave an overview and challenges of the Chapter. The 2010 project funded by CITYNET on roof gardening, composting and rainwater harvesting was also presented. Participants subsequently discussed the draft business plan (2011-2013). The Chairperson expressed his satisfaction with the enthusiasm of members at the meeting. He emphasised his keen wish to see the development of Bangladesh National Chapter activities and was very optimistic about its future.
The meeting was organised during the short visit of Dr. Bernadia I. Tjandradewi, Programme Director, CITYNET who provided inputs on CITYNET’s modalities, performance as well as how other chapters function. Her visit was also in preparation of the 28th Executive Committee meeting and Climate Change Seminar to be hosted by Dhaka City Corporation in October 2011. For the arrangement of both events, advisory and working committees have been formed. The committees comprise the Mayor of Dhaka, DCC personnel and other members of CITYNET.