Eminent economist and BRAC Chairman Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman called for citizen-led reforms and a shift towards a more inclusive and knowledge-driven economy while delivering a public lecture titled “What Drives Change: Today’s Questions” at East West University on 30 July.

The lecture was held at the university’s Manzur Elahi Auditorium.

In his keynote address, Dr Rahman identified six drivers of change, “narrative, institution, norms, initiatives, power and interest groups”, and discussed how both their positive and negative aspects influence Bangladesh’s economy.

He said Bangladesh must move beyond a low-cost labour-driven economy that depends heavily on the ready-made garment sector and remittances. He also said the country has struggled to translate democratic principles into state practice and has yet to fully utilise its demographic dividend.

To achieve meaningful change, Dr Rahman stressed the need to redefine the role of the state as a service provider rather than an authority above citizens. He also called for improving professionalism, strengthening the quality of education through forward-looking planning, and promoting greater cleanliness and transparency in society.

Referring to the historic years of 1947, 1971 and 2024, he said the enduring aspiration for change among the people of Bangladesh remains the country’s greatest strength. He added that citizen-led innovation and grassroots initiatives have repeatedly helped the nation overcome major challenges.

“The ultimate key to change lies in the hands of the citizens,” he said.

The programme was chaired by Professor Mohammed Farashuddin, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of East West University. In his remarks, he said the benefits of national development have not adequately reached vulnerable and marginalised communities, and called for greater investment in healthcare and education alongside measures to reduce social inequality.

Earlier, Vice-Chancellor Professor Shams Rahman delivered the welcome address.

Members of the Board of Trustees, faculty members, students, officers and staff attended the event.