The United Nations Development Programme Bangladesh, in partnership with the Center for Policy Research on Business and Development of the University of Dhaka, launched the International Certification in Inclusive Insurance at the university on 5 May.

The initiative is being implemented under UNDP’s Insurance and Risk Finance Facility, addressing critical gaps in technical expertise that have limited the growth of inclusive insurance in Bangladesh.

The certification programme aims to strengthen Bangladesh’s insurance ecosystem by developing skilled professionals who can design, deliver and scale inclusive insurance solutions for low-income households, micro-entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises, and underserved communities.

Inclusive insurance is increasingly recognised as an important tool for strengthening economic resilience in Bangladesh, particularly for people and enterprises vulnerable to financial, climate, health and other shocks.

The programme will support professionals from insurance companies, financial institutions, NGOs, microfinance institutions, digital platforms, government institutions and other relevant organisations to improve product design, distribution strategies, customer engagement, servicing and claims handling.

Attending the event as a special guest, University of Dhaka Department of Banking and Insurance Chairman Professor Dr Md Shahidul Islam Zahid said inclusive insurance is central to building a resilient and equitable economy.

“This certification marks an important step in bridging the skills gap and preparing professionals to design solutions that truly respond to the needs of underserved communities,” he said.

University of Dhaka Department of International Business Chairman Dr Abul Khayer said the initiative would help embed international standards within a nationally anchored academic framework.

“By embedding international standards within a nationally anchored academic framework, this initiative ensures that knowledge is not only transferred but sustained. It positions Bangladesh to lead in developing inclusive, customer-focused insurance systems that can protect livelihoods at scale,” he said.

University of Dhaka Faculty of Business Studies Dean Dr Mahmood Osman Imam chaired the programme.

UNDP Insurance and Risk Finance Facility National Programme Officer Monirul Hoque delivered the keynote presentation.

University of Dhaka Associate Professor Dr Aditi Shams, also co-lead of the initiative, coordinated the event.

The programme is expected to create a pool of internationally certified professionals and trainers through training of trainers.

It is also expected to improve the quality and reach of inclusive insurance products and services, strengthen customer-centric practices across institutions, and institutionalise national training capacity within the University of Dhaka.

By bridging capacity gaps and promoting inclusive practices, the programme marks a significant step towards expanding equitable risk protection across Bangladesh.