Photo: BSS

DHAKA, June 19, 2026 (BSS) - Hundreds of young debaters from across the 
country gathered at Dhaka University (DU) today to exchange ideas on social 
protection policies and contribute to discussions on Bangladesh's future 
welfare framework through a national debate tournament.

The event, titled 'Dhaka IV: Youth Voices for Social Protection', was 
organised by the Dhaka University Debating Society (DUDS) in partnership with 
the Social Security Policy Support (SSPS) Programme of UNDP Bangladesh, with 
support from the Australian Government (DFAT).

Held at the Faculty of Business Studies, the tournament brought together 
nearly 400 participants, including debaters, adjudicators and volunteers.

Around 50 teams competed in five rounds of debates conducted in British 
Parliamentary and Asian Parliamentary formats.

DU Proctor Md. Israfil Ratan attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest 
while UNDP Senior Governance Specialist of UNDP Bangladesh Tanvir Mahmud 
joined it as special guest.

Other attendees included UNDP Consultant Abdul Barik, DUDS Moderator Prof. 
Amirus Salat, DUDS President Jubayer Hossain and its General Secretary Ragib 
Anjum.

Speaking at the programme, Israfil Ratan stressed the importance of creating 
opportunities for young people to engage in discussions on issues that affect 
society and national development.

Abdul Barik said debate platforms focused on public policy help students 
develop analytical skills and prepare them for future leadership and 
policymaking roles.

Addressing the participants, Tanvir Mahmud said governments regularly face 
complex policy choices regarding resource allocation, service delivery and 
social inclusion.

He noted that issues such as climate change, demographic shifts, 
technological transformation and labour market changes require informed 
public engagement and constructive debate.

"The quality of public policy depends, in large part, on the quality of 
public discourse," he said, adding that UNDP supports initiatives that 
encourage evidence-based discussions among young citizens.
Prof. Amirus Salat expressed appreciation for UNDP's support, saying 
investments in youth development would contribute to strengthening 
Bangladesh's human capital.

Arju Afrin Kathy, research officer of the Social Security Policy Support 
Programme, said the tournament was organised at a significant moment as the 
National Social Security Strategy (NSSS) 2015-2026 approaches its conclusion 
and preparations begin for its successor framework.

She said the initiative seeks to incorporate youth perspectives into future 
discussions on social protection and human development policies.

The organisers said the grand finals of both the British Parliamentary and 
Asian Parliamentary categories will be held on June 20.