The Centre for Disability in Development (CDD) on Monday marked 30 years of work promoting the inclusion and socio-economic development of people with disabilities in Bangladesh.
The anniversary programme was held at BRAC CDM in Savar, with the participation of people with disabilities involved in CDD projects, representatives of donor and partner organisations and government officials, according to a press release.
CDD Executive Director Nazmul Bari said the organisation had been working to expand opportunities for people with disabilities in education, skills development, employment and leadership. CDD’s current website identifies Bari as executive director.
He said CDD had made significant progress since its inception, but much more remained to be done to secure the rights of people with disabilities and increase their participation in leadership.
Bari called on the government and other stakeholders to strengthen efforts to bring people with disabilities into the mainstream of society.
CDD founding Executive Director A H M Noman Khan presented highlights from the organisation’s 30-year journey.
Guests also unveiled a commemorative book documenting CDD’s work over the past three decades.
The programme included discussions on disability rights, education, community-based rehabilitation and inclusive disaster management, along with a cultural programme.
Bangladesh Rural Development Board Director General AKM Tarek said CDD had played a leading role in advancing the rights of people with disabilities in Bangladesh. BSS also identifies Tarek as director general of the Bangladesh Rural Development Board.
He said the government was working with organisations such as CDD to support inclusion in remote areas where urban facilities were not available.
Tarek also expressed hope that cooperation between the government and other organisations would be strengthened to build a more inclusive Bangladesh.
Earlier in the day, CDD organised the Community-Based Rehabilitation Summit 2026, attended by several hundred children and young people with disabilities and their parents.
Speakers at the summit discussed disability rights, participation, empowerment and inclusive development, and exchanged views on future priorities.
