Diplomatic Representative at Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) Munir M Merali has said looking ahead, education, sustainability, and technology will be at the heart of Bangladesh’s development.

"Stakeholders can support by championing policies that promote innovation, fostering partnerships, and ensuring that education and climate resilience remain top priorities," he told UNB in an interview as he wrapped up his long tenure in Dhaka on Friday.

To keep pace with global advancements, Munir said, Bangladesh needs to focus on embedding climate education into the curriculum.

With Bangladesh on the frontlines of climate change, he said, it is critical that they raise awareness and build climate resilience through education.

The next generation must be equipped to address environmental challenges proactively, said the diplomat.

Highlighting the importance of training youth in AI and Data Science, Munir said the future economy is digital.

"By investing in AI and data analytics education, Bangladesh’s youth can remain competitive in an increasingly automated world," he said.

The diplomat shed light on investing in teacher training and development. "No education reform is complete without focusing on those who deliver it—our teachers. They need the right tools, training, and professional development to shape future generations."

On strengthening public-private partnerships in education, Munir said transforming education requires collaboration across government, private sector, and civil society.

He said sustainable reforms will only be possible through collective action.

UNB: What are the most significant achievements you’ve seen or contributed to during your time with AKDN in Bangladesh?

Munir: As I reflect on my time with AKDN in Bangladesh, I feel immensely grateful for the opportunity to contribute to initiatives that have positively impacted communities. Beyond projects and policies, the true achievement has been witnessing lives transformed students gaining access to world-class education, teachers empowered with new skills, and entrepreneurs finding opportunities for financial inclusion.

Some of the milestones I am particularly proud of include:

• The Establishment of the Aga Khan Academy, Dhaka: A landmark institution designed to nurture future leaders while fostering values of pluralism, ethics, and service. It builds on the rich legacy of the Aga Khan School, which has been providing high-quality education for decades.

• Early Childhood Development and Teacher Training: Equipping teachers with innovative methods and empowering young children with foundational skills has created ripples of positive change in classrooms across the country.

• Economic Empowerment through Financial Services: AKDN’s investments, including its involvement with Industrial Promotion and Development Company (IPDC) and Habib Bank Limited (HBL), have strengthened financial inclusion, providing businesses and individuals with the tools to grow and prosper.

• Diplomatic and Policy-Level Engagement: Strengthening ties with government institutions and the development community has been crucial in ensuring AKDN’s work is sustainable and impactful.

However, beyond these accomplishments, what has inspired me the most is the resilience and spirit of the Bangladeshi people. Whether in classrooms or rural communities, their drive to learn, grow, and build a better future is what makes every effort worthwhile.

UNB: What were the biggest challenges you faced in your role, and how did you navigate them?

Munir: Like any long-term development effort, there were moments that required patience, persistence, and strategic diplomacy. One of the key challenges was navigating complex regulatory landscapes to ensure that AKDN’s initiatives could operate efficiently and with the necessary approvals. However, through continuous dialogue with government authorities, we were able to achieve and facilitate the institutional growth.

Another challenge was adapting to rapid socio-economic and political shifts while ensuring that AKDN’s work remained aligned with the country’s development priorities. This required constant engagement with key stakeholders, clear communication, and a commitment to long-term partnerships over short-term fixes.

The COVID-19 pandemic was another significant test of resilience, particularly in education. Schools had to pivot to digital learning and services had to integrate AI-driven solutions. The lesson? Adaptability and innovation are key to overcoming uncertainty.

But through all these challenges, what kept me going was the collective commitment of our teams, the dedication of the Bangladeshi people, and the unwavering support of our partners including the Government of Bangladesh.

UNB: Can you share a story or experience that highlights the real impact of AKDN’s work on the ground in Bangladesh?

Munir: There are countless stories that showcase the real, human impact of our work, but one that stands out is from a visit to a rural community where AKF was running an Early Childhood Development (ECD) program.

I met a young mother who shared how the program had changed her child’s life. Before joining, her son had struggled with basic literacy, but after receiving structured learning support from trained teachers, he not only caught up but began excelling in school.

What touched me most was her realization that education wasn’t just about attending school—it was about engagement, encouragement, and opportunity. She was empowered to be part of her child’s learning journey, and that, in itself, was transformative.

This moment reaffirmed my belief that development isn’t measured just in statistics—it’s measured in stories of personal triumph and community progress.

UNB: How has your experience with AKDN influenced your perspective on diplomacy, development, and global partnerships?

Munir: One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that diplomacy is not just about formal agreements—it’s about relationships, trust, and shared vision. Development is most effective when it is built on genuine partnerships between governments, private institutions, and civil society.

I have also come to appreciate the power of innovation in development. Whether it’s leveraging AI to improve healthcare access or using technology to create new learning opportunities, the future of progress lies in embracing new solutions while remaining rooted in human-cantered values.

Above all, this journey has reinforced my deep belief in the resilience and potential of people. Progress isn’t dictated by policies alone—it’s driven by individuals who work tirelessly every day to make a difference.

A Heartfelt Thank You & Looking Ahead

Munir: As I step away from my formal role, my heart is full of gratitude. I want to extend a sincere thank you to the Government of Bangladesh, particularly the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Education, and Finance, for their support, collaboration, and trust in facilitating AKDN’s work.

It has been an incredible privilege to serve as the inaugural Resident Diplomatic Representative of AKDN in Bangladesh—an honour for which I remain forever indebted to His Highness the Aga Khan. His vision of education, pluralism, and ethical leadership continues to light the way for so many of us.

But more than anything, I want to thank the people of Bangladesh. Your warmth, determination, and sense of community have made this journey unforgettable. While I may not miss the traffic or the air pollution, I will forever cherish the friendships, experiences, and shared aspirations we have built together.

Though my formal role is ending, this is not goodbye. I remain deeply invested in Bangladesh’s progress and look forward to continuing to contribute in my private capacity.

Bangladesh has given me so much more than I could ever give back—it has taught me resilience, patience, and the power of working together.

So, let’s stay in touch. Let’s continue to build. And let’s keep believing in a future filled with hope, progress, and opportunity.

Thank you, Bangladesh. This is just the beginning.