The Information Commission Bangladesh has held a meeting with representatives from non-governmental organisations to discuss plans, scope and implementation strategies for organising Right to Information (RTI) fairs at universities across the country. The NGO representatives shared their views and suggestions on how their organisations could contribute to and participate in the initiative.
The meeting was held on Wednesday morning in the conference room of the Information Commission Bangladesh, chaired by Chief Information Commissioner Nahreen Islam Khan. Information Commissioners S A M Mahfuzur Rahman and Khan Mohammad Abul Hossain, along with Commission Secretary Md Shah Alam, were also present, said a press release.
The initiative aims to raise public awareness of the Right to Information Act, 2009, and encourage wider exercise of the right to information.
The proposed information fairs will feature stalls set up by various organisations, showcasing RTI-related publications, posters, leaflets and booklets. Videos, short dramas and documentaries highlighting the right to information will also be screened.
Practical assistance will be provided to students on how to write applications seeking information and complete the relevant application forms. The fairs will also familiarise students with the procedures for lodging appeals and complaints, thereby making the exercise of the right to information easier and more effective.
Participants expressed optimism that university-based information fairs would foster a positive attitude towards the right to information among young people and encourage them to exercise this right. The initiative is also expected to contribute to promoting transparency and accountability and building a more informed, aware and responsible citizenry.
