International Seminar on Bangladesh Development History Held in Dhaka
Photo: courtesy
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Photo: courtesy
An international seminar on the development history of Bangladesh, as well as the world, was held on the 5th floor of the Bishwo Shahitto Kendro in Dhaka on Friday, May 20.
The seminar titled “History of Development and Bangladesh: Why is History Important for Development Practice?” aimed to create a network for global professionals, young researchers, historians and learners to share their knowledge on the subject, reads a press release.
The event was jointly organized by the US education and research organization Global Center for Innovation and Learning (GCFIL) and Open Access Bangladesh, an organization that strives to make research facilities accessible to everyone.
Farida Yasmin, executive director of the Disabled Rehabilitation and Research Association (DRRA), moderated the event.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Michael Gubser, Professor of History at James Madison University in Virginia, USA, discussed the importance of history in the development of a country.
Photo: TBS
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Photo: TBS
He mentioned “a history” and discussed in detail the factors affecting the rise of a post-World War II “historicism”, its effects and implications.
He noted that development is “story in action”, so it shouldn’t be limited to technical expertise only.
“History should be revisited and seen as a cautionary tale.”
Speakers included Professor Emeritus of BRAC University, Dr Manzoor Ahmed, Head of Interventional Hepatology Division of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Professor Dr Mamun Al Mahtab, and Special Correspondent of the Jamuna television, Md Mahfuzur Rahman Mishu.
Dr. Manzoor Ahmed agreed with Michael that the exclusion of historical context is part of the problem.
He suggested the need to look at the larger context and go further and deeper to reach the Bangladesh we envision, and to develop an understanding among ourselves on how we can progress from the current situation.
Professor Dr. Mamun Al Mahtab spoke briefly about his experience during the pandemic.
He said, “We have forgotten our history and heritage, which must be amended to prevent the distortion of history and development.
Md Mahfuzur Rahman Mishu, being a journalist, raised questions like the existence of a correlation between history and development.
According to him, Bangladeshis can easily adapt to new initiatives, which is why we have come a long way from a “bottomless basket”.
He suggested that it would be more helpful for development if people trusted our history and abilities.
The seminar continued by answering questions from the audience during a pleasant session.