'Accountability of govt, NGOs a must for good governance'

The Khan Foundation organised a 'National Convention 2005 on Khan Foundation NGO Network' in the city on Thursday. From left are Executive Director of Aid Tariqul Islam Palash, Executive Director of Khan Foundation Rokhsana Khondker, Information Minister M Shamsul Islam, Science and ICT Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan and Executive Director of GKS Khandaker Selim Jahangir

He also called on the donors to focus on small NGOs to ensure transparency and accountability.

The minister was speaking as chief guest at the concluding session of the 'National Convention 2005 on Khan Foundation NGO Network' in the city. More than 300 representatives of NGOs across the country took part in the convention.

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Speaking as guest of honour, economist Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud called on the NGOs to expand the range of their activities. They have to work to prevent child marriage, improve the quality of education and to ensure good governance, he said.

Information Minister M Shamsul Islam attended the opening ceremony as chief guest while Canadian High Commissioner David Sproule and cabinet secretary Dr Saadat Hussain were present as special guests.

The information minister said the NGOs should help the government in its development efforts as it is not possible for the government alone to carry out all activities.

The Canadian envoy said the NGOs are playing an important role in the development of the country. He also assured that Canada will provide continued assistance for the development of Bangladesh.

Advocate Rokhsana Khondker, executive director of Khan Foundation, presided over the daylong convention.