A virtual policy dialogue titled “Budget Review for Sylhet’s Development: Prospects, Challenges and Way Forward” was held on Saturday, organized by the Sylhet Sustainable Development Research Firm (SSDRAF). The discussion focused on the national budget’s role in promoting sustainable development, infrastructure improvement, human resource growth, and economic progress in Sylhet. Key speakers included Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, Dr. A. K. Enamul Haque, Director General of BIDS, and Dr. Shah Md. Atiqul Haque, Professor of Sociology at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST).

Organizers stated that the event aimed to generate evidence-based discussions and policy recommendations to ensure inclusive and sustainable development in Sylhet through effective resource allocation and long-term planning. Speakers emphasized prioritizing local realities, climate risks, regional disparities, and long-term strategies in development planning. They also highlighted the importance of education, innovation, agriculture, environmental conservation, tourism, and the commercial use of local resources.

During the question session, participants raised issues about innovation capacity, trade policy, and the potential of Sylhet’s natural products in international markets. The event was moderated by SUST professors Dr. Munshi Naser Ibn Afzal and Dr. Tasmina Chowdhury Tania.