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Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to inaugurate the development of three “SDG Villages” on Monday (August 10), marking a new step in the government’s effort to localise the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The three villages—Pankhali in Dakop upazila of Khulna, Mitinga Chhari in Kaptai upazila of Rangamati, and Nafanagar in Bochaganj upazila of Dinajpur—have been selected for integrated development under the initiative.
The Prime Minister will formally launch the programme in Pankhali and join the events in the other two villages virtually, officials said.
The initiative aims to transform selected rural areas by aligning development activities with the 17 SDGs, focusing on poverty reduction, climate resilience, improved education and healthcare, and enhanced living standards.
Dakop Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Borhan Uddin Mithu said priority will be given to addressing waterlogging, tackling climate risks, and ensuring access to quality education and healthcare services.
Key components of the programme also include reducing maternal and child mortality, expanding safe water and sanitation, promoting women’s empowerment, increasing the use of renewable energy, environmental conservation and afforestation, and boosting agriculture and livelihoods. Efforts will also be made to expand digital services and technology access.
The initiative has sparked optimism among residents of Pankhali, who said they have long awaited such development. Locals expectations that the programme will bring electricity, business opportunities, improved farming, jobs, and better basic services.
Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md Abdullah Harun visited Pankhali on August 6 and directed officials to ensure coordinated efforts for the village’s development.
Pankhali Union Parishad Chairman Sheikh Sabbir Ahmed welcomed the initiative, saying it would help improve socio-economic conditions in the coastal area and create new employment opportunities.
