Six NGOs join forces in a significant initiative, aimed at uplifting underprivileged communities
The 'Innovation for Development' (i4D) forum has been launched to improve the lives of marginalised and underprivileged communities by introducing innovations in the development sector. Six renowned development organisations, including Friendship, formed the forum, and representatives from the six NGOs made the launching announcement on Monday, 23 September, at a hotel in the capital city.
The event also featured the unveiling of an 'Innovation Book' that details the innovative measures taken by the six NGOs over the years.
The NGOs involved in this initiative are Friendship, Save the Children, World Vision Bangladesh, Sightsavers, Shastho Shurokkha Foundation, and Jhpiego. 'Innovation for Development' serves as a common platform for NGOs, relevant government agencies, non-profits, private sector entities, and other like-minded organisations, where they can play a crucial role in improving the lives of vulnerable communities through innovative, scalable, and sustainable solutions.
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Runa Khan, Founder of Friendship was present at the event along with Chandan Z. Gomez, Senior Director of Operations at World Vision Bangladesh; Md. Belal Uddin is the director of PDQ at Save the Children; BM Zahidul Islam is the programme manager at Sightsavers; and Sushanta Dobe is the country lead of Health Protection Foundation and Jhpiego. Dr Shuchita Sharmin, Chairman of the Department of Development Studies at Dhaka University, graced the event as an honourable guest. Representatives and officials from various national and international organisations were also in attendance.
Ms. Khan said, "Innovation is about finding practical solutions to real challenges. The best innovations are simple, adaptable, and community-driven. But innovation alone is not enough. Without kindness, humility, and tolerance, we cannot build a nation where people live with dignity and hope. True change happens when values and innovation go hand in hand."
The 'Innovation for Development' forum fosters a culture of sharing innovations and ideas, organizing joint initiatives, presenting and learning from relevant findings, and seeking resources for further innovative projects and programmes.
