Today, on September 4, 2026, a participatory climate change risk analysis consultation meeting was held in the Niamatpur Upazila of Natore, with the aim of combating the harmful effects of climate change and preserving environmental balance. The event included the inauguration of tree planting, a community-based biogas plant, and a pond rehabilitation project.
This program was organized under the ‘GoFloodImpact’ project, implemented by the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) with funding from the Government of Switzerland and technical assistance from WaterAid Bangladesh and Swisscontact Bangladesh.
The Honorable Sheikh Faridul Islam, MP, Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, was the chief guest at the event.
Special guests included Md. Mostafizur Rahman, MP, from the Natore-1 constituency; Corinne Thevoz, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the Swiss Embassy; WaterAid Bangladesh’s Country Director Azman Ahmed Chowdhury; ESDO’s Founder and Executive Director Dr. Muhammad Shahid Uz Zaman; Gofairimpact Project Head Saif Manzur-Al-Islam; Nawgaon’s District Collector and District Magistrate Mohammad Saiful Islam and Niamatpur Upazila Executive Officer Ms. Murshida Khatun. The guests present inaugurated the program by planting a sapling each. Officials from various district and upazila-level departments, local leaders, and project beneficiaries were present.
After the tree planting, the guests participated in a consultation meeting on the ‘GoferImpact’ project’s participatory climate risk analysis. The meeting discussed the project’s goals, objectives, and strategies to increase the climate resilience of the local community. Afterwards, the guests inaugurated a community-based biogas plant built with the project’s support. The guests commented that this plant will play a significant role in increasing the use of renewable energy and managing waste in an environmentally friendly way.
Finally, the guests held a discussion with local Union Council members and representatives from various government offices. The meeting focused on enhancing public-private coordination at the local level, ensuring sustainable development, and further accelerating the project’s activities.
In his speech as the chief guest, Minister of State Sheikh Faridul Islam said, “Regarding the GoFertilizeImpact project: The GoFloodImpact project, funded by the Swiss government, is being implemented by the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) with technical assistance from WaterAid Bangladesh and Swisscontact Bangladesh. The project is working to increase the climate resilience of local communities and implement environmentally friendly development activities.

On Monday, 31 August 2026, Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) had the distinct honour of warmly welcoming H.E. Brent T. Christensen, Ambassador of the United States of America to Bangladesh, his spouse Mrs. Deanne Dao, and the distinguished U.S. Embassy team to the ESDO Head Office in Thakurgaon.
The distinguished guests were graciously received by Dr. Md. Shahid Uz Zaman, Founder and Executive Director, ESDO, and Dr. Selima Akhter, Director (Administration), ESDO and Principal, Eco Pathshala & College, in an atmosphere of warmth, friendship, and mutual respect.
To honour their esteemed visit, ESDO arranged a special Cultural Program at the Joynal Abedin Auditorium, ESDO Head Office, Gobindanagar, Thakurgaon, showcasing the rich cultural heritage, diversity, and vibrant traditions of Bangladesh and the northern region.
The occasion reflects the enduring spirit of friendship, cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and people-to-people connection between Bangladesh and the United States of America. ESDO is deeply honoured by the presence of H.E. Brent T. Christensen, Mrs. Deanne Dao, and the distinguished U.S. Embassy delegation, and extends its sincere appreciation and warmest compliments to them.
Welcome to ESDO. Welcome to Thakurgaon.

Another proud achievement for the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO). A research paper on the organization’s SEEDS project’s climate-resilient and community-based adaptation initiatives has been published in the international journal MOJ Public Health.
The article, titled “From Climate Vulnerability to Local Leadership: Community-Driven Climate Adaptation and Resilient Livelihoods in Flood-Prone Northern Bangladesh,” highlights ESDO’s field-level experiences and effective adaptation initiatives in addressing climate risks, developing local leadership, and building climate-resilient livelihoods for the flood-prone communities of northern Bangladesh.
The article was authored by Dr. Muhammad Shahid-uz-Zaman, Founder and Executive Director of ESDO, and Dr. Selima Akhtar, Principal of Eco College.
This international publication is a significant recognition of ESDO’s long-standing experience and work in engaging grassroots communities to combat the impacts of climate change.

Today, Friday, August 28, 2026, the ceremony for distributing the pay scale and promotion letters for the 2026–2027 fiscal year was held at ESDO’s Zainal Abedin Auditorium, simultaneously with all zones, for the officers and staff of the Microfinance Program.
The chief guest at the event was Dr. Muhammad Shahid-uz-Zaman, Founder and Executive Director of the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO).
Special guests included Dr. Selima Akhtar, Director (Administration), ESDO and Principal, Eco Pathshala & College, and Mr. Shashwat Zaman, Team Leader, Youth Engagement and ICT, ESDO.
Also present at the event were senior officials of ESDO’s Microfinance Program, along with officials and staff from various levels.
It is expected that this pay scale and promotion, in recognition of the employees’ dedication, skill, responsibility, and contribution to the organization’s progress, will inspire them to perform their duties with even greater enthusiasm, motivation, and professional excellence in the future.

Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) is proud to be one of the sponsors of this important event that spreads the message of health, harmony, friendship and a positive lifestyle.
Dedicated to the 23rd newly elected President of Bangladesh, His Excellency Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the Abul Hossain Sarkar Degree College premises and surrounding areas came alive with runners from different parts of the country from the early hours of Friday (August 28).
At the end of the competition, ESDO Founder and Executive Director Dr. Muhammad Shahid Uz Zaman Sir presented the prizes to the winners. Local dignitaries and concerned guests were present at the time.
ESDO is always committed to supporting such initiatives on the path of human well-being, social harmony and positive change.

ESDO is pleased to participate in the Co-Creation Workshop of Nagorikata – Civic Engagement Fund (CEF), an important step toward turning shared ideas into meaningful action. Through the NAGORIKATA Project, ESDO, together with 11 partner organizations, will work across Bangladesh to strengthen youth engagement, skills development, TVET, employability, livelihood pathways, and sustained civic participation. Together, we are co-creating pathways where young people are not only beneficiaries, but active partners and leaders in shaping their future.

The first Annual General Meeting (AGM) of FINISH Mondial Foundation, a non-government development organisation, was held on 22 August, at the conference room of Club 89 Limited, Gulshan, Dhaka. The meeting was presided by Dr. Md. Shahid Uz Zaman, Chairman of the Executive Committee of FINISH Mondial Foundation and Executive Director of Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO).
The AGM was also attended by the Executive Director and Secretary General, Wahida Anjoom, along with members of the Executive Committee and General Committee.
With the unanimous consent of the members of the Executive Committee, the meeting presented and approved the organisation’s financial and programme reports for the previous year, the work plan and budget for the upcoming year, and decisions taken by the Executive Committee throughout the year.
The participating members expressed their commitment to contributing effectively, from their respective positions, towards supporting disadvantaged and underserved communities in Bangladesh through the organisation.

It is a moment of immense pride for ESDO!

The Government of Bangladesh, through the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has selected Dr. Md. Shahid Uz Zaman, Executive Director of ESDO, as a member of two key committees for COP31:

▪️ COP31 Bangladesh Position Paper Presentation Sub-Committee
▪️ COP31 Bangladesh Technical Coordination Committee

This recognition reflects his expertise and dedication, as well as ESDO’s growing contribution to Bangladesh’s climate action and global climate diplomacy.

The ESDO family extends its heartiest congratulations to Dr. Zaman and wishes him every success in representing Bangladesh and advancing a stronger, more ambitious and climate-resilient future.

The Job EXPO & Advocacy Event 2026, organized under the LIFT Project, was successfully held on 20 August 2026 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center (BCFCC), Dhaka. The event was implemented by Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) with the support of EDUCO and ChorogUsan for Children.
The event brought together distinguished policymakers, senior government officials, industry leaders, employers, development partners, and young people, creating a dynamic platform to strengthen skills development, employment, entrepreneurship, career readiness, and meaningful job-linkage opportunities for youth.
We were deeply honored by the gracious presence of our distinguished guests:
Inaugurator & Chief Guest: Zahir Uddin Swapon, MP — Honourable Minister, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Guest of Honor: Dr. Nazneen Kawshar Chowdhury — Executive Chairman (Secretary), National Skills Development Authority (NSDA), Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)
Special Guests
* Mohammed Walid Hossain, Additional Secretary — Executive Program Director (EPD), SICIP
* Md. Hasan Khaled — Deputy Managing Director, PKSF
* Benzir Ahmed— Chairman, Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC)
* Devabrata Chakraborty (Joint Secretary) — Director Admin, Bureau of Non-Formal Education (BNFE)
* Engr. Md. Ruhul Amin — Chairman, Bangladesh Technical Education Board
* Mahmud Hasan Khan — President, BGMEA
* Md. Shehab Udduza Chowdhury — Vice President, BGMEA
* Mirza Nurul Ghani Shovon — Chairman, Informal Sector Industry Skills Council (ISISC)
* Md. Jahangir Alam — Chief Operating Officer (COO), X Group Chain Restaurant & Hospitality Management
The event was also attended by Abdul Hamid, Country Director, Educo Bangladesh and Dr. Md. Shahid Uz Zaman, Founder & Executive Director, ESDO, along with representatives from government institutions, industries, development organizations, and other stakeholders.
Throughout the day, participants actively engaged in a wide range of career-focused activities, including a panel discussion on skills development, employment and entrepreneurship; career counselling; CV writing and interview skills; career guidance; mock interviews; direct interaction with industry representatives; and job-linkage activities.
These engagements provided young job seekers with valuable insights, practical career preparation, networking opportunities, and direct exposure to potential employers—helping bridge the gap between skills, aspirations, and employment opportunities.
ESDO extends its sincere appreciation and gratitude to all distinguished guests, partners, government representatives, industry leaders, participating organizations, employers, young job seekers, and everyone whose valuable presence, cooperation, and contribution made the JOB EXPO & ADVOCACY EVENT 2026 a success.
Together, we are empowering young people with the skills, confidence, connections, and opportunities they need to successfully navigate and lead the 21st-century job market.

A New Horizon for Higher Education, Science & Technology, Innovation, and Employment in the Northern Region: The Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) family expresses its deep gratitude to Honorable Prime Minister Mr. Tarique Rahman and the Minister of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, Mr. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, MP.
Thakurgaon, August 17, 2026: A significant new chapter has been opened in the history of higher education and human resource development in the northern region of Bangladesh. At the initiative of the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO), the Eco University of Science and Technology to be established in Thakurgaon (EUST) has received government approval. This approval will unlock new possibilities for the youth of the northern region, offering quality higher education, science and technology-based skills, research, innovation, and dignified employment.
The ESDO family and the people of the northern region express their deep gratitude and sincere thanks to the Honorable Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Mr. Tarique Rahman, for this historic decision. At the same time, ESDO expresses its special gratitude to the Honorable Minister of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, Mr. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, MP, for his sincere cooperation, encouragement, and support in realizing the dream of establishing EUST.
“From Education to Skills • From Skills to Innovation • From Innovation to Employment
Not just a university—an investment in the future of the northern region: ESDO believes that the approval of EUST is not just the approval of a new university; it is a significant investment in the dreams, potential, and future of thousands of young men and women in the northern region. Geographical distance or socioeconomic constraints should not be a barrier to higher education for any talented student—with this vision, EUST will be developed as an inclusive, modern, and results-oriented institution of higher learning.
ESDO’s Commitment: High-Quality Education, Science & Technology, and Employment: ESDO is committed to establishing EUST not just as a degree-granting institution, but as a forward-looking university that builds effective bridges between knowledge, skills, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment. The highest priority will be given to quality education, qualified faculty, modern laboratories, digital learning, a research environment, and student support systems.
• Higher education and research in subjects that meet the demands of the future job market, including science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and climate and environmental technologies.
• State-of-the-art education and skills development in emerging technology fields such as Artificial Intelligence, ICT, Data, and Digital Technologies.
• A modern research laboratory, an Innovation Lab, and a culture of problem-solving research and innovation;
• Internships, apprenticeships, career services, job placement, and joint initiatives with the industry through University-Industry Linkage
• Preparing students as entrepreneurs and job creators through an Entrepreneurship and Startup Innovation Hub;
• Expanding inclusive higher education opportunities for meritorious, female, marginalized, and financially disadvantaged students;
• Academic and research collaborations with national and international universities, research institutions, and industries.
“EUST’s success will be measured not by degrees, but by the competent people it produces”:
“We have long cherished the dream of establishing a high-quality science and technology university on the soil of Thakurgaon. Today, that dream has received state approval, and we express our deepest gratitude to the Honorable Prime Minister, Mr. Tarique Rahman, and the Honorable Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, Mr. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Our goal is to build a university where a student will not just walk away with a certificate; …will emerge with knowledge, technical skills, humanistic values, innovative thinking, and the ability to succeed in their careers.”
— Dr. Md. Shahiduzzaman, Founder & Executive Director, ESDO
From Thakurgaon to a New Center of Knowledge, Innovation, and Economic Progress:
The establishment of EUST aims to build a strong knowledge and innovation ecosystem in Thakurgaon and the broader northern region. By increasing local opportunities for quality higher education, developing skilled human resources, fostering new research and technological innovation, connecting industry and entrepreneurship, and boosting local employment, the university will have a long-term positive impact on the regional economy. Research based on solutions to the real-world challenges of the northern region in the fields of agricultural and food technology, climate resilience, environment, digital transformation, engineering, health technology, and social innovation will be particularly encouraged.
Gratitude to All: Sincere gratitude is expressed to the Honorable Prime Minister, the Honorable Minister of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, the Ministry of Education, the University Grants Commission (UGC), relevant government institutions, academics, well-wishers, the people of Thakurgaon, and all members of the ESDO family for their guidance, cooperation, and trust throughout this long journey. ESDO views this approval not just as an achievement, but as a great responsibility towards future generations.
EUST’s Vision: From the North to World-Class Knowledge, Science, Technology, and Innovation
Quality Education • Science & Technology • Research & Innovation • Employability