Eastern Bank PLC’s flagship mobile banking platform EBL Skybanking has received the “Recognition for Accessible Initiatives” award for its contribution to building an inclusive and accessible digital banking ecosystem in Bangladesh.
The platform was the only banking app to receive the honour.
The award was presented at a programme organised by Aspire to Innovate (a2i) marking Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2026, held last Thursday at the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Auditorium in Dhaka, reads a press release.
Fakir Mahbub Anam, minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, and Farzana Sharmin, state minister for Social Welfare, jointly handed over the award to M Khorshed Anowar, deputy managing director and head of Retail and SME Banking of EBL.
EBL Skybanking was recognised for its continued efforts to provide accessible, secure and user-friendly financial services, including for persons with visual impairments.
Its accessibility features include screen reader compatibility, voice-assisted navigation, biometric login and instant transaction alerts, ensuring a seamless banking experience for diverse user groups.
Speaking at the event, Fakir said ensuring equal access to digital services for persons with disabilities remains a key government priority.
“This is not a matter of charity; it is their right,” he said, stressing the importance of aligning technology with diverse needs and abilities.
Farzana said universal digital accessibility is essential to building an inclusive Bangladesh and reaffirmed government support for initiatives promoting accessibility and inclusion.
Through its digital solutions, EBL continues to strengthen financial inclusion, promote cashless transactions and contribute to Bangladesh’s expanding digital economy.
Among those present from EBL were Ahsan Ullah Chowdhury, head of Digital Financial Services; Sanjit Dutta, head of Application Development and Technology Solutions; and Amin Md Mehedi Hasan, head of Digital Banking and ADC.
The event was co-organised by Friendship and Sightsavers, and chaired by Kazi Anwar Hossain, secretary of the ICT Division.
