Interim Dean Mathbor Delivers Keynote Speech at UBAC Forum

Golam Mathbor, interim dean of the School of Social Work, delivered a keynote speech at "The Bangladesh Election 2026 and the Role of Civil Society" forum hosted by the U.S. Bangladesh Advocacy Council (UBAC) at Washington University of Science and Technology on Jan. 11.

The event provided a platform for discussion on the upcoming Bangladesh general election, including topics such as democratic reform, institutional credibility, and conditions necessary for a credible and trusted electoral process.

In his speech, Mathbor described the Feb. 12 election as a critical moment for democratic renewal that "goes beyond choosing a government," and emphasized the role of civil society in advancing voter education, election observation, and inclusive participation.

He also addressed recent political developments, including preparations by the interim government and the proposed July National Charter, a reform framework shaped by political actors and civil society, while highlighting the country's progress since independence in 1971 and continued economic advancement.