Special Correspondent :
Bangladesh Bank (BB) Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur announced that the central bank is preparing to issue licenses for digital banks, aiming to expand financial inclusion and bring school students into the formal banking network.
Speaking at the 30th anniversary celebration of Dhaka Bank, held at a hotel in the capital, the Governor emphasized the need to strengthen the foundations of the country’s banking sector and regain public trust.
“We want to ensure every bank branch supports at least one school. This is part of our broader plan to promote financial literacy and early banking engagement,” said Dr. Mansur.
“We’re introducing digital banking licenses with this in mind, so that the youth – especially students – can easily access banking services.”
He acknowledged ongoing challenges in the financial sector. “The banking industry is not in a healthy state.
Though we witnessed growth in the 1980s, several systemic errors need correction. If bank owners prioritize customer service, trust will be rebuilt, and deposit growth will follow,” he added.
Referring to recent improvements, the Governor highlighted that Islamic Bank’s share value increased by 31% last week. “Confidence is returning. We’re working tirelessly to stabilize the banking sector and steer it toward financial excellence.”
Dhaka Bank Chairman: A Journey Built on Collaboration
Following the Governor’s remarks, Dhaka Bank Chairman Abdul Hai Sarkar reflected on the institution’s three-decade journey.
“Reaching this milestone would not have been possible without the cooperation we received – from both past and present governments, stakeholders, and our customers. From the outset, our aim was to build a reputation-based bank, and we’ve achieved that.”
He thanked all who contributed to the bank’s success and acknowledged the continued trust and support of clients throughout the years.
Director Mirza Abbas: Dhaka Bank is Not ‘Mirza Abbas’s Bank’
Director of Dhaka Bank, Mirza Abbas, reminisced about the bank’s foundation, which he said was built with friends. “Our vision was always to operate the bank as a circle of friends. When you walk into a Dhaka Bank branch, it feels like an international bank,” he noted.
Dispelling misconceptions, Abbas said, “There’s a common myth that Dhaka Bank is the ‘Mirza Abbas Bank.’ That’s not true. I’m merely one of its shareholders. The bank is managed by its CEO, board, and professionals. While I am honored to serve as a director, the operational leadership rests with them.”
He also recounted an incident involving regulatory bias, saying, “When Dhaka Bank files went to Bangladesh Bank, officials referred to it as Abbas’s bank and treated it with skepticism. I want to reiterate – this is a public institution run by many, not owned by any one individual.”
The event concluded with a vibrant cultural program, marking three decades of Dhaka Bank’s contribution to the financial sector.
