Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Saturday called for stronger macroeconomic stability, lower inflation, a simpler and more digital tax system, better governance in banking and an environment conducive to private investment as he addressed the grand finale of ECONTHON 2026 at United International University (UIU) in Dhaka. He has served as finance and planning minister since 17 February 2026.
The national inter-university economics competition, organised by UIU’s Junior Economists Forum in collaboration with its Department of Economics, drew 224 teams from universities across Bangladesh and concluded at the UIU campus on 3 October, the university said in a press release. The competition was designed to take students beyond classroom learning by applying economic knowledge to real-world challenges.
Khosru said students needed to learn to confront challenges rather than avoid them, arguing that finding solutions starts with acknowledging problems.
He stressed the need to maximise returns from every taka spent on education, healthcare and social protection, alongside improving the broader macroeconomic environment.
The objectives would not be achieved in a single day, he said, but sustained commitment was essential.
Khosru also urged students to develop policies and ideas based on facts and evidence, saying an idea that looked attractive on paper also needed to be tested for feasibility, cost, intended beneficiaries and who would ultimately bear the burden.
Drawing a comparison with ECONTHON, he said judges were assessing whether competitors’ ideas were feasible, while governments faced similar decisions every day when evaluating the practicality and impact of policies.
He said the objectives of ECONTHON were aligned with Sustainable Development Goals 8, 10 and 17, covering decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities and partnerships for the goals.
Hasan Mahmood Raja, chairman of UIU’s Board of Trustees and chief adviser of United Group, attended as guest of honour. UIU and United Group separately confirm both positions.
Raja said ECONTHON was more than a competition and provided a platform connecting classroom education with broader issues such as employment.
He praised UIU’s Department of Economics and the organisers for creating an opportunity for students to learn, think and innovate.
Raja urged participants to look beyond the classroom and focus on humanity, becoming compassionate, responsible and socially conscious individuals. He also encouraged students to apply what they had learnt, value the friendships they built and pursue excellence.
He expressed hope that ECONTHON would continue as a platform for students and contribute to national development.
KMA Shamim, a member of UIU’s Board of Trustees and adviser to United Group, attended as special guest, according to the release. United Group identifies KMA Shamim, whose full name is Khandaker Moinul Ahsan Shamim, as an adviser and one of its founding directors.
UIU Vice-Chancellor Md Abul Kashem Mia, who presided over the programme, said ECONTHON reflected the university’s commitment to developing critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and practical skills among students.
He congratulated participants and the Junior Economists Forum for organising the national competition. UIU’s official website confirms Md Abul Kashem Mia as vice-chancellor.
Mohammad Omar Farooq, head of UIU’s Department of Economics, moderated the programme. UIU lists him as professor and head of the department.
NSU team takes top prize
ECONTHON 2026 offered a total prize pool of Tk 2.65 lakh.
Team “Vini Vedi Vici” from North South University was named grand champion and received Tk1 lakh.
Team “Shield” from the University of Dhaka finished first runner-up and received Tk75,000, while UIU team “Dhaka-99” took the second runner-up position and received Tk50,000.
The People’s Choice Team from Southeast University and the other participating teams will receive Tk20,000, according to the release.
Faculty members, officials, students, economists, participants and guests from different institutions and organisations attended the event.
United Finance powered the competition, while BRAC Bank was platinum sponsor, United Insurance Company Limited gold sponsor and Bonton Foods bronze sponsor.
