Category: News
Harnessing AI for Impact: A New Chapter for Dnet & iSocial
April 22, 2026

The future of social impact is here! ![]()
Dnet, in joint collaboration with iSocial, has officially embarked on a transformative journey to integrate Artificial Intelligence into NGO operations. Today (April 22, 2026) we kicked off this mission with a high-energy workshop focused on leveraging AI to drive organizational efficiency and scale innovation.
The session brought together diverse minds from Dnet, iSocial, and Catalyst Now, fostering a collaborative environment for the next generation of management practices.
A special thank you to our facilitator, Tahsin Ifnoor Sayeed. As an AI expert and a former member of the Dnet family, Tahsin’s return to share his expertise made this “starting journey” even more meaningful.
Stay tuned as we redefine how technology meets humanity to create a more resilient and tech-driven development sector!
#Dnet #iSocial #CatalystNow #AIforGood #NGODigitalization #InnovationInAction #FutureOfWork #SocialImpact
Empowering the Marginalized: Dnet and iSocial Lead Critical AI Discourse at DRAPAC 2026
April 30, 2026

As Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape global economies, the conversation is shifting from technical capability to human accountability. At the DRAPAC 2026 summit, organized by Digitally Right and EngageMedia, Dnet and iSocial hosted a high-level session focused on a pivotal transition: moving from AI exclusion to genuine empowerment.
The session, moderated by Dr. Ananya Raihan (Executive Chairperson of Dnet and Chairperson of iSocial), moved beyond theoretical ethics to address the lived realities of those often left behind by the digital revolution.
From Vulnerability to Agency
The discussion highlighted that the “AI divide” isn’t just about internet access—it’s about protection and rights. Panelists emphasized the need for a gender-just and accountable ecosystem, specifically focusing on sectors where automation and algorithmic decision-making pose the greatest risks to livelihoods.
Key Insights from the Panel
The diverse panel brought together expertise in technology, labor rights, and law to dissect the complexities of an AI-driven future:
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Labor Rights & Supply Chains: Sadman Rahman (ILO) addressed the urgent need to protect garment workers’ rights as automation enters the manufacturing sector, ensuring that technology serves to uplift labor standards rather than erode them.
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Technological Infrastructure: Rakibul Hasan (CTO, Link3 Technologies) provided a technical perspective on how infrastructure must be designed with inclusivity at its core to prevent systemic bias.
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Legal Frameworks: Barrister Priya Ahsan Chowdhury (Supreme Court of Bangladesh) advocated for the independence of data regulators and robust legal frameworks to hold AI developers and users accountable.
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Transparency & RTI: Ruhi Naz (Research Initiatives, Bangladesh) emphasized the role of the Right to Information (RTI) in ensuring that data collection and AI processes remain transparent to the public.
A Vision for the Future
The consensus among the speakers was clear: AI empowerment is impossible without intentional design and strict oversight. The session concluded with a call to action for policymakers and tech leaders to prioritize human-centric AI that protects the vulnerable and promotes social equity.
“It’s not just about the technology; it’s about the people it affects.”
By bridging the gap between high-tech innovation and grassroots advocacy, Dnet and iSocial continue to lead the charge in ensuring that the future of AI in South Asia and beyond is both inclusive and just.
dFin (Financial Sector Arm of Dnet) Hosts Risk Conference on Banking and Finance 2026 in Dhaka
April 11, 2026

DHAKA, April 11, 2026 — dFin, the financial sector arm of Dnet, today hosted the “Risk Conference on Banking and Finance 2026” at the Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel. The conference brought together regulators, senior bankers, and sector experts to examine the critical risk environment facing financial institutions in Bangladesh amidst a shift toward more stringent oversight.
The conference opened with a welcome address by Mr. Mahmud Hasan, Executive Director of Dnet. Following the welcome, Dr. Toufic Ahmad Choudhury (Former DG, BIBM; and Member, Governing Body, Dnet) and Professor Mustafizur Rahman, PhD (Distinguished Fellow, CPD; and Member, Governing Body, Dnet) shared their insights on the necessity of robust risk frameworks in the current economic landscape.
The event was formally inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Former Finance Adviser to the Interim Government of Bangladesh and Former Governor of Bangladesh Bank. In his keynote address, Dr. Ahmed emphasized the importance of stability and transparency in the banking sector during this period of transition. The inaugural session concluded with remarks from Dr. Shah Md. Ahsan Habib, Professor Selection Grade, BIBM and Chairman of Dnet. The conference arrives at a pivotal time as Bangladesh Bank transitions from compliance-led oversight to Risk-Based Supervision (RBS) and implements tighter loan classification and provisioning rules.
Key Sessions and Highlights:
- Transitioning to Risk-Based Supervision: Discussions focused on moving beyond formal rules to a forward-looking model that emphasizes institutional risk profiles and supervisory judgment.
- Credit Risk and NPL Management: Experts addressed the structural roots of non-performing loans (NPLs), highlighting the need for improved credit appraisal and internal risk cultures to restore confidence in asset quality.
- Digital Financial Inclusion: With the rapid expansion of digital financial services (DFS), the conference identified emerging threats such as cyber fraud, system downtime, and weak data governance as core issues for financial stability.
- Global and Geopolitical Risks: A dedicated session explored how external volatility, including global conflict and trade flow disruptions, directly impacts domestic bank balance sheets.
The conference featured an expert panel chaired by Professor Mustafizur Rahman, PhD (Distinguished Fellow, CPD and Member, Governing Body, Dnet), and included high-level panelists such as Professor Mahmood Osman Imam, PhD (Dean, Faculty of Business Studies, University of Dhaka); Mr. Md. Ali Hossain Prodhania (Chairman, NRBC Bank PLC; Former MD, BKB; and Supernumerary Professor, BIBM); Mr. Mashrur Arefin (Chairman, ABB and Managing Director & CEO, City Bank PLC); Mr. Syed Mahbubur Rahman (Managing Director, Mutual Trust Bank PLC); Mr. Rizwan Dawood Shams (Managing Director, IPDC Finance PLC). The panel bridged the gap between policy intent and operational reality, offering grounded views on governance, liquidity, and capital management. “Risk can no longer be managed as a routine compliance issue; it must be addressed as a strategic, system-wide concern,” noted the conference organizers. The event aligns with dFin’s broader mission to strengthen institutional performance and practical skills within the banking and financial sector.
About dFin: dFin is the financial sector capacity development arm of Dnet, a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the banking and finance sector through high-quality training, research, and advisory services.
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Media Contact: Name: dFin Office [A Center of Dnet] Phone: +880 9606003638 Email: dfin@dnet.org.bd Website: https://dnet.org.bd/dfin/
Media coverage of the event
- The Business Standard – https://tinyurl.com/4trd5vtu
- bdnews24 – https://bdnews24.com/economy/72aac57b1b57
- Dhaka Tribune – https://www.dhakatribune.com/business/banks/407473/salehuddin-must-have-the-courage-to-say-no-to
- Banik Barta – https://bonikbarta.com/bangladesh/y3fcVL8yx4Xcaf2l
- The New Nation – https://dailynewnation.com/news/819084
- Ortho Shongbad – https://tinyurl.com/hnsfscks
- News Now 24 – https://newsnow24.com/business/ctp0VGw2RN
- Banik Barta – https://tinyurl.com/mwpjntwz
- Bangla Tribune – https://tinyurl.com/2vtfwrzt
- Samakal – https://tinyurl.com/y3a2jfe3
- Business Journal 24 – https://tinyurl.com/3x8m2j39
- Dainik Amader Shomoy – https://www.dainikamadershomoy.com/details/019d7de3bbc94
- The Financial Times – https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/trade/digital-banking-involves-fraud-cyber-theft-risks
dFin Announces International Risk Conference on Banking and Finance for April 2026
March 10, 2026
Dhaka, Bangladesh – dFin has officially announced its upcoming “Risk Conference on Banking and Finance 2026,” scheduled to take place on April 11, 2026, at the Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel. The full-day event, running from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, aims to serve as an international platform for dialogue on the most pressing issues facing the financial sector today.
The conference will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including regulators, banking professionals, risk practitioners, and financial sector leaders. According to the organisers, the discussions will focus on navigating emerging risk landscapes, understanding recent regulatory developments, leveraging digital transformation, and building institutional resilience in a rapidly changing financial environment.
dFin has released the participation structure for the event, offering tiered group registration fees. The cost per person is 10,000 BDT for groups of one to four, which includes registration, two snacks, and lunch. The fee decreases on a per-person basis for larger groups, with a rate of 9,500 BDT for groups of 10 to 15 participants.
In addition to attendee registration, dFin is offering several sponsorship packages. The top-tier sponsorship, priced at BDT 200,000, includes free participation for seven individuals, logo placement on the event banner, and a 15-minute video promo slot. Other sponsorship levels are available at BDT 100,000 and BDT 50,000, offering varying combinations of free participation and promotional benefits.
Organisers have clarified that the participation fees strictly cover the actual costs associated with the venue, hospitality, logistics, and applicable government taxes, with no commercial markup applied.
For those interested in registering or exploring sponsorship opportunities, further information and inquiries can be directed to dFin via email at dfin@dnet.org.bd or by phone at +8801719476384. Payment details, including bank account information with Mutual Trust Bank Limited, are also available upon request.
Empowering Coastal Communities: GCA Project Launches Month-Long Cascade Training for Climate Resilience
March 5, 2026

DHAKA, MARCH 2026 – In a significant move toward strengthening the climate resilience of Bangladesh’s vulnerable coastal regions, the Dnet and BSAFE Foundation consortium has officially commenced its field-level “cascade training” sessions. The initiative, part of the Gender-responsive Coastal Adaptation (GCA) project supported by the UNDP and the Green Climate Fund, began on March 4 and is scheduled to run through March 30, 2026.
Scaling Impact through Field Facilitators
Following the successful completion of foundational training for lead facilitators, the project is now transitioning to its “cascade” phase. This strategy utilizes trained field facilitators to deliver direct capacity-building and livelihood support to coastal communities. The focus remains on enhancing the adaptive capacities of communities—particularly women—to cope with the increasing threat of climate-induced salinity.
Focus on Sustainable Value Chains
The training sessions are designed to provide practical, hands-on knowledge in several key areas identified in the project’s Inception Report:
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Climate-Resilient Livelihoods: Training in aqua-geoponics, crab fattening, and salinity-tolerant vegetable cultivation.
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Market Linkages: Strengthening the role of Community-based Livelihood Management Associations (CbLMA) to ensure farmers receive fair prices.
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Gender Empowerment: Addressing the specific needs of women-led households to ensure they have the tools and financial independence to withstand environmental shocks.
“Our goal is to turn knowledge into action,” said Md. Hashem Ali Akash, Deputy Director of BSAFE Foundation. “By cascading this training directly to the field level, we are ensuring that the most remote coastal farmers have the technical expertise to secure their livelihoods despite the challenges of rising salinity.”
Collaboration and Oversight
The implementation plan, which includes a rigorous schedule of workshops across various coastal venues, is being conducted under the guidance of the UNDP’s GCA project team. Mr. Khandoker Md Ruhul Amin, Market Development Associate at UNDP, has been invited to oversee and support the sessions, ensuring that the training aligns with the project’s overarching goal of sustainable market development.
Looking Ahead
As the sessions continue through the end of March, the Dnet-BSAFE consortium will monitor the progress closely, adapting the curriculum to meet the real-time needs of the participants. This phase marks a critical milestone in the GCA project’s mission to build a more resilient and equitable future for the coastal population of Bangladesh.
ToT Held to Strengthen Climate Resilience of Coastal Communities Under UNDP GCA Project
March 1, 2026

A five-day Training of Trainers (ToT) titled “Enhancing Adaptive Capacities of Coastal Communities, Especially Women, to Cope with Climate Change-Induced Salinity” was successfully conducted from 22–26 February 2026 under the UNDP’s GCA Project.
A total of 10 trainers participated in the intensive training program designed to build a pool of skilled facilitators who will cascade knowledge at the community level. The ToT focused on strengthening adaptive and livelihood capacities of vulnerable coastal populations, particularly women affected by salinity intrusion due to climate change.
Mr. Khandoker Md. Ruhul Amin, Market Development Associate of the GCA Project, UNDP, attended the event as the Special Guest and shared insights on climate-resilient livelihood development and market linkages.
Key modules of the training included Business Planning, Financial Literacy, and Leadership Skills. These modules were designed to equip participants with practical tools to support community-based Local Market Agents (CbLMAs) in promoting sustainable and resilient livelihoods.
The primary objective of the ToT was to prepare trainers who will deliver capacity-building sessions for CbLMAs across the coastal regions of Shatkhira and Khulna divisions. Through this initiative, the GCA Project aims to enhance local resilience and empower communities to better adapt to climate-induced challenges.
Dnet and Amal Foundation Join Forces to Drive Social Innovation and Digital Inclusion
February 9, 2026

Dhaka | February 09, 2026
Dnet and Amal Foundation have officially entered into a strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance resource mobilization and collaborative project implementation in Bangladesh. The agreement, signed at a formal ceremony, establishes a three-year framework for cooperation focused on social development and technology-enabled solutions.
The primary purpose of this partnership is to jointly mobilize resources from national and international donors while designing projects that utilize a complementary approach. Both organizations aim to exchange internal expertise and connect with professional networks to achieve sustainable development outcomes.
Key Areas of Collaboration:
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Resource Mobilization: Jointly identifying funding opportunities and developing collaborative proposals.
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Project Implementation: Co-creating project concepts and executing field activities aligned with shared objectives.
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Knowledge Sharing: Conducting joint research, assessments, and capacity-building programs for staff and stakeholders.
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Institutional Strengthening: Exchanging best practices to foster mutual growth and institutional learning.
Representing Dnet at the signing were Mahmud Hasan (Executive Director), Syed Majedur Rahman (Director – Operations and Institutional Affairs), and Asif Ahmed Tonmoy (Joint Director, Program and Innovation).
Representing Amal Foundation were Esrat Karim (Founder and Executive Director) and Noor Ali Shah (Manager – Fundraising and Grant Writing).
Under the agreement, Dnet will contribute its expertise in digital inclusion and social innovation, while Amal Foundation will leverage its strong community engagement and humanitarian experience. To ensure the success of these initiatives, a joint coordination mechanism will be formed to oversee all collaborative efforts.
Dnet and Southeast University Forge Strategic Partnership to Advance Research and Innovation
February 3, 2026

DHAKA, February 3, 2026 – In a significant move toward bridging the gap between academic research and sustainable development, Dnet has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Economics at Southeast University (SEU). The signing ceremony, held at the SEU permanent campus in Tejgaon, marks the beginning of a multi-year collaboration focused on data-driven solutions and academic excellence.
The partnership establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation in several high-impact areas. Both institutions have committed to pursuing joint research initiatives, with a particular focus on Health, Data Science, and the exploration of innovative models to reach the “last mile” populations in Bangladesh.
Beyond research, the MoU facilitates:
- Academic Exchange: Robust faculty and student exchange programs to promote cross-institutional learning.
- Capacity Building: Skill enhancement initiatives designed to equip students and professionals with modern analytical tools.
- Knowledge Sharing: Joint organization of seminars, workshops, and international conferences to disseminate findings and foster intellectual dialogue.
A Gathering of Leadership
The ceremony was attended by high-level representatives from both organizations, underscoring the strategic importance of this alliance.
Representing Southeast University were:
Prof. Yusuf Mahbubul Islam, Ph.D., Vice Chancellor
Prof. M. Mofazzal Hossain, Ph.D., SM IEEE, Pro-Vice Chancellor
Fahima Kabir, Chairperson, Department of Economics
Ruba Rummana, Associate Professor, Department of Economics
Leading the delegation from Dnet were:
Dr. Ananya Raihan, Executive Chairperson
Mahmud Hasan, Executive Director
Asif Ahmed Tonmoy, Joint Director, Program and Innovation
Driving Impact Through Synergy
Speaking at the event, leadership from both sides emphasized that this collaboration is more than just a formal agreement; it is a shared vision to enhance the research landscape of Bangladesh. By combining SEU’s academic rigor with Dnet’s decades of experience in social innovation and technology, the partnership aims to create scalable solutions for the nation’s most pressing challenges.
This MoU is set to remain in effect for an initial period of two years, with provisions for renewal based on the successful implementation of joint projects.
কুলাউড়ায় স্থানীয় সরকারের মধ্যে জবাবদিহিতা, স্বচ্ছতা নিশ্চিতে সভা অনুষ্ঠিত
February 15, 2026

প্রকাশিত: ৬ ডিসেম্বর (শনিবার), ২০২৫
মৌলভীবাজারের কুলাউড়ায় স্থানীয় সরকারের মধ্যে জবাবদিহিতা, স্বচ্ছতা নিশ্চিত করার লক্ষ্যে নাগরিক সমন্বয় প্রকল্পের বার্ষিক টাউন হল মিটিং অনুষ্ঠিত হয়েছে। গত বৃহস্পতিবার দুপুরে জেলা পরিষদ অডিটোরিয়ামে আয়োজিত অনুষ্ঠানটি নিঃস্ব সহায়ক সংস্কার (এন এস এস) উদ্যোগে এবং ডিনেটের সহযোগিতায় অনুষ্ঠিত হয়। এতে কুলাউড়ার বিভিন্ন ইউনিয়নের শিক্ষক, জনপ্রতিনিধি, সাংবাদিক, এনজিও প্রতিনিধি, প্রশাসনের কর্মকর্তাদের নিয়ে উন্মুক্ত সংলাপ অনুষ্ঠিত হয়। সংলাপে নিজ নিজ এলাকার নানাবিধ সমস্যা ও এসব নিরসনে প্রস্তাবনা, স্থানীয় সরকারের বিভিন্ন প্রকল্পের কাজের মান, স্বচ্ছতা এবং জবাবদিহিতার ঘাটতির বিষয় তুলে ধরা হয়। প্রশাসনের পক্ষ থেকে ইউএনও এবং স্ব স্ব বিভাগের কর্মকর্তাগণ এসব বিষয়ের ব্যাখ্যা ও সুরাহার আশ্বাস দেন। উপজেলা নির্বাহী কর্মকর্তা মো. মহিউদ্দিনের সভাপতিত্বে স্বাগত বক্তব্য দেন নিঃস্ব সহায়ক সংস্থার প্রকল্প পরিচালক আসিফ হোসেন তন্ময়। বিশেষ অতিথির বক্তব্য রাখেন উপজেলা কৃষি কর্মকর্তা মোহাম্মদ জসিম উদ্দিন, উপজেলা সমাজসেবা কর্মকর্তা প্রাণেশ চন্দ্র বর্মা, উপজেলা মহিলা বিষয়ক কর্মকর্তা সৌমিত্র ভৌমিক, উপজেলা যুব উন্নয়ন কর্মকর্তা আলমগীর হোসেন, প্রেস ক্লাব কুলাউড়ার সভাপতি আজিজুল ইসলাম। নিঃস্ব সহায়ক সংস্থার প্রজেক্ট ম্যানেজার আতিকুর রহমানের সঞ্চালনায় সভায় বক্তব্য দেন নিঃস্ব সহায়ক সংস্থার কো-অর্ডিনেটর সাদেকা ভূঁইয়া, ভিডিওর নির্বাহী পরিচালক শাহিন আহমদ, সাকোর নির্বাহী পরিচালক শামীম আহমদ, আলিমুজ্জামান, প্রেস ক্লাব কুলাউড়ার সিনিয়র সহ-সভাপতি ময়নুল হক পবন, সাংবাদিক আব্দুল কুদ্দুস, প্রেস ক্লাব কুলাউড়ার সাংগঠনিক সম্পাদক আলাউদ্দিন কবিরসহ বিভিন্ন ইউনিয়ন পরিষদের সদস্য, এনজিও প্রতিনিধি, শিক্ষক, সমাজকর্মী প্রমুখ।
কমলগঞ্জে নাগরিক সমন্বয় প্রকল্পের বার্ষিক পাবলিক টাউন হল সভা অনুষ্ঠিত
February 15, 2026

প্রকাশিত : বুধবার, ৩ ডিসেম্বর, ২০২৫
মৌলভীবাজারের কমলগঞ্জে নাগরিক সমন্বয় প্রকল্পের বার্ষিক পাবলিক টাউন হল সভা অনুষ্ঠিত হয়েছে। বুধবার (৩ডিসেম্বর) সকাল ১১ টায় ললিতকলা একাডেমিতে এই সভা অনুষ্ঠিত হয়। সভায় সকল ক্ষেত্রে সুশাসন, জবাবদিহিতা ও নাগরিক অংশগ্রহণ বৃদ্ধির লক্ষ্যে বিস্তারিত আলোচনা করা হয়। নাগরিক সমন্বয় প্রকল্পের আওতায় জনকল্যাণ কেন্দ্রের আয়োজনে ডিনেট এর সহযোগিতায় এবং সিভিক এনগেজমেন্ট ফান্ড এর সহযোগিতায় এই সভা অনুষ্ঠিত হয়।
নাগরিক সমন্বয় প্রকল্পের বার্ষিক পাবলিক টাউন হল সভায় অতিথি হিসেবে উপস্থিত ছিলেন কমলগঞ্জ উপজেলা সমাজ সেবা কর্মকর্তা ইউসুফ মিয়া, উপজেলা যুব উন্নয়ন কর্মকর্তা হাবিবুর রহমান, উপজেলা মাধ্যমিক শিক্ষা কর্মকর্তা সামসুন নাহার পারভীন, কমলগঞ্জ প্রেসক্লাব সভাপতি আসহাবুজ্জামান শাওন, কালের কন্ঠ (মাল্টিমিডিয়া) মৌলভীবাজার প্রতিনিধি সালাহউদ্দিন শুভ, নাগরিক সমন্বয় প্রকল্পের প্রজেক্ট ম্যানেজার আসিফ আহমেদ তন্ময়, প্রজেক্ট অফিসার সাদিয়া আফরিন প্রমা, ফিল্ড অফিসার সিরাজুস সালিকিন রাজিব, জনকল্যাণ কেন্দ্রের সভাপতি কমলা কান্ত সিংহ,নির্বাহী পরিচালক নীল মণি সিংহ, জনকল্যাণ কেন্দ্রের কো-অর্ডিনেটর নুরুন নাহার, একাউন্ট অফিসার নন্দবাবু সিংহ।
সভায় তৃণমূল পর্যায়ের শতাধিক বিভিন্ন শ্রেণীপেশার লোকজন উপস্থিত ছিলেন।
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