French envoy praises Bangladesh’s Union Digital Centers as models of inclusive, people-centered digital service innovation. Photo : BSS

RANGPUR, Oct 28, 2025 (BSS) - French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc S‚r‚-Charlet has said the human-centered, inclusive, and efficient Union Digital Centers (UDCs) have become a genuine example of social justice in Bangladesh.

"The UDCs are a great way to deliver government and private services to rural people. France supports such initiatives and will continue to do so in the future," he said while visiting the Sadya Pushkarni UDC in Rangpur Sadar upazila on Monday.

The ambassador made the remarks at a program titled "Welcome to Sadya Pushkarni Union Digital Center," organized by UNDP Bangladesh and the Economic Relations Division (ERD) in collaboration with a2i, and the Rangpur district and upazila administrations. 

Rangpur Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Saiful Islam coordinated the program, which showcased how UDCs are transforming service delivery across both urban and rural areas.

The visiting delegation included UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller, Deputy Resident Representative Sonali Dayaratne, ERD UN Unit Chief (Additional Secretary) AKM Sohel, UNDP Assistant Resident Representative Anwarul Haque, and a2i Head of Communications Mohammad Shafiul Azam, among others.

An interactive discussion, chaired by Sadya Pushkarni Union Administrator S. M. Ainul Islam, was held with service recipients and local representatives.

Addressing the event, UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller said the UDC initiative has brought citizens to the center of governance. "Time and cost savings are being achieved by simplifying processes, enhancing digital accessibility, promoting local entrepreneurship, and increasing trust in public services," he noted.

During the visit, entrepreneur Arifuzzaman Moon demonstrated real-time service delivery through the Digital Center Management Platform. The services provided on the spot included agent banking, social security allowance, Hajj registration, police clearance, TIN, land services, and manpower card issuance.

Among the beneficiaries, Gayana Bala, a disabled woman, said, "Earlier, we had to rely on others even for small banking tasks. Here, the service providers treat us with respect and complete the work in minutes. We don't need to go to the city anymore. I've gained both dignity and self-reliance."

Another resident, Md. Rafiqul Islam, completed Hajj registration, while Md. Kibria accessed multiple services simultaneously.

The event also featured a presentation on the center's progress, an exchange of views, and a cultural performance.

Experts noted that a2i's digital center initiative, which began as union information and service centers, has expanded to municipalities, district and upazila councils, and city corporation wards. 

Over 9,500 centers are now operating nationwide, offering more than 390 types of services, including land records, national ID, utilities, licensing, travel, and registration through the ekSheba Entrepreneur Platform.

More than 4,800 centers now provide agent and mobile banking services to promote financial inclusion, while the Skills Fusion Center offers ICT and vocational training for youth. The model has recently been replicated in the Bangsamoro region of the Philippines.

Upon arrival, the delegation received a warm welcome with flower garlands, greeting cards, and traditional Bhaoyaiya songs. Female students lined up with flowers to greet the guests, who were deeply moved by the hospitality.

The ambassador and visiting dignitaries were also treated to displays of northern Bangladesh's rich rural culture, including stick games, horse racing, folk music, and agricultural exhibitions. The guests expressed admiration for the sincerity, warmth, and strong cultural pride of the local people.