‘He was crucial for microfinance’

Shafiqul Haque Chowdhury was a simple but courageous person. He was committed to his role as a social entrepreneur. He will survive through his works.

This is what speakers said about the ASA founder at a programme at Jatiya Press Club in the capital yesterday, marking a year of his passing.

At the session, a commemorative book titled "Shafiqul Haque Chowdhury Sharak Grantha" was also unveiled. The event was organised by Association of Social Advancement (ASA).

Speaking as chief guest, Planning Minister MA Mannan said the nation is proud of Shafiqul Haque Chowdhury's contribution to poverty reduction. He said Shafiqul took ASA to new heights, establishing ASA International and ASA University.

Md Abdul Aziz, former cabinet secretary and senior adviser to ASA, spoke of Shafiqul's commitment to social work. "Despite the adverse impact of Covid, Asha still plans to lend Tk 38,000 crore to 7 million people this fiscal year."

He added, the memoir on Shafiqul will act as a guide for future generations.

During his speech, former governor of Bangladesh Bank Salehuddin Ahmed praised Shafiqul for his contribution to developing microfinance in the country.

Gonoshasthaya Kendra founder Jafrullah Chowdhury said, "If a borrower died, Shafiqul would write off their debts."

Atiur Rahman, former Bangladesh Bank governor, also spoke. British microfinance expert Stuart Rutherford also joined event with a pre-recorded speech.

The memorial book on Shafiqul features his journey with ASA and the past and present of microfinance in Bangladesh. In the book, luminaries from home and abroad wrote about their memories of Shafiqul, as well as appraising his work. The book also features write-ups by Shafiqul's colleagues, friends and admirers.