The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has reinstated popular actress, producer and social activist Jaya Ahsan as its goodwill ambassador in Bangladesh, effective from Thursday.

Jaya, who was the UNDP's goodwill ambassador for a year in 2022, will now serve in this voluntary role till January 2025.

During the tenure, the acclaimed artist will support the UNDP as the goodwill ambassador to spotlight important issues like sustainable development goals (SDGs) to mobilise support and raise awareness to achieve the goals by 2030.

"I am honoured to be able to continue the good work with the UNDP as its goodwill ambassador and feel extremely privileged to continue in the team for working towards these goals," Jaya said.

"I renew my vow to continue advocating and mobilising action to work on SDGs through online and offline media and all other platforms I have access to."

"With only seven years left to achieve the SDGs, it is high time we realise our shared responsibility in making our planet a better place. What that means is that each of us as citizens of the planet needs to play our part to help achieve the SDGs," she added.

Stefan Liller, the UNDP resident representative in Bangladesh, said: "We are fortunate to have Jaya Ahsan as our Goodwill Ambassador. Jaya is not only a celebrated artist but also a person committed to equitable and sustainable development."

"She has helped amplify our call both in and beyond Bangladesh to join the UNDP's efforts in promoting healthier, more prosperous and inclusive societies, and we look forward to continuing working together."

Jaya will continue working with the UNDP to raise public awareness and galvanise support for different campaigns on poverty, governance, resilience, environment, energy and gender equality.