UNDP Goodwill Ambassador inaugurates smart post center in Khulna

Digital Bridges: Unveiling the Future of Connectivity in Rural Bangladesh

March 19, 2024

UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden inaugurates a pioneering Smart Service Point in Khulna, ushering in a new era of digital inclusion for rural Bangladesh.

©UNDP Bangladesh

During the mission in Bangladesh, Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, inaugurated a Smart Service Point of Post Office in Koyra, Khulna on 19 March to strengthen digital inclusion and facilitate access to public services leaving no one behind.

The Smart Service Point (SSP) initiative, a collaborative effort integrating digital solutions with traditional postal services, represents a significant stride towards realizing the vision of a Smart Bangladesh by 2041. Offering a spectrum of amenities such as parcel tracking, bill payment, and e-commerce facilitation, SSPs are revolutionizing accessibility and efficiency in rural areas of Bangladesh.

Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury emphasized the indispensable role of Digital Centre initiatives in propelling Bangladesh towards a digitally inclusive society, stating, "Digital Centre is bringing government services to the doorstep of grassroots people, making essential services easily accessible.

State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak presenting a sapling symbolizing growth and sustainability during the Smart Service Point inauguration in Khulna.

©UNDP Bangladesh

State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak MP underscored its pivotal role in building a digitally inclusive society. He remarked, "Smart Service Point is an innovative initiative that aims to use technology to improve the accessibility and efficiency of postal services in the community."

The delegation also visited the Moharajpur Union Digital Centre. Throughout the visit to the Digital Centre, interactive sessions with beneficiaries showcased the tangible benefits of the Digital Centre, illustrating its contribution to enhancing access to government services, financial transactions, and other essential services for rural citizens.

State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak gifts a portrait of Crown Princess Victoria to the Princess herself, a gesture of gratitude and collaboration from a2i, marking the occasion of the Smart Service Point inauguration in Khulna.

©UNDP Bangladesh

Aspire to Innovate-a2i of the Cabinet Division and ICT Division, supported by UNDP is working towards building a Smart Bangladesh through various innovative initiatives. The visit served to spotlight Bangladesh's strides in digital inclusion and sustainable development, reflecting the nation's dedication to leveraging technology for the betterment of society.

Ulrika Modéer, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Bureau of External Relations and Advocacy UNDP, Johan Forssell, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade; Stefan Liller, UNDP Resident Representative in Bangladesh, Alexandra Berg von Linde, Ambassador of Sweden to Bangladesh, Mollah Mizanur Rahman, Joint-Project Director (Joint Secretary) of a2i, Anir Chowdhury, Policy Advisor of a2i; were present along with other senior government officials, UN delegates, and dignitaries.

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Empowering Rural Communities: A Leap Towards Digital Inclusion and Sustainable Development in Bangladesh