The Microcredit Regulatory Authority (MRA) held a public hearing in Ramu upazila of Cox’s Bazar with over a hundred male and female microcredit clients. Organized jointly by Young Power in Social Action (YPSA) and COAST Foundation on April 12, the event allowed rural participants to share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations related to microcredit. MRA’s Executive Vice Chairman Professor Dr. Mohammad Helal Uddin attended as chief guest, emphasizing proper fund utilization and institutional capacity building.

Participants raised issues such as high service charges, lack of safe drinking water, and the need for grants for injured or affected members. They also discussed expanding employment opportunities for women and in the tourism sector to boost the local economy. COAST and YPSA representatives highlighted ongoing training programs and joint efforts to address water scarcity.

Dr. Helal Uddin noted that regulatory reforms and concessional funding are being pursued to strengthen microcredit institutions. He added that new tourism demand following the railway expansion could create local employment through professional training.