Staff Reporter :
The appointment of former Power Secretary Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Fouzul as the Energy Adviser in the new interim government has raised high hopes for revitalising the energy sector.
With a long and distinguished career, Fouzul is expected to address the issues of corruption and inefficiencies within the sector.
The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, has entrusted Fouzul with the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, as well as the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges and the Ministry of Railways.
Fouzul, an economist and finance professional, has previously served as Secretary of Power for the Government of Bangladesh.
He is also known for his pivotal role in founding and leading the Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL) as its Chief Executive Officer in 1997.
Under his leadership, IDCOL managed nearly half a billion dollars in infrastructure finance provided by the World Bank, according to reliable sources.
One of Fouzul’s most notable accomplishments was the implementation of the Solar Home Systems (SHS) programme, which is regarded as one of the most successful initiatives of its kind worldwide.
Through this innovative programme, over 4 million solar home systems have been installed across rural Bangladesh, significantly enhancing energy access and fostering sustainable development.
With over 15 years of teaching experience, Fouzul has held academic positions at prestigious institutions such as North South University, the National University of Singapore, and the University of Massachusetts at Boston.
His expertise extends beyond teaching, having co-authored a book titled ‘Financing Large Projects,’ published by Pearson/Prentice Hall.
Additionally, Fouzul has provided consulting services to global organisations, including the World Bank, ADB, IFC, UNDP, GtZ, and JICA, working in various countries.
As Bangladesh moves forward on its path to development, Fouzul ‘s appointment is seen as a pivotal step in addressing the challenges within the energy sector.
Stakeholders from the interim government and the industry are looking to him to leverage his extensive experience to bring about transformative changes that will secure the country’s energy future.