Dr. Atiur Rahman (Economist, Former Governor of Bangladesh Bank)

Dr. Atiur Rahman

• Born: November 24, 1952, in the Jamalpur district of Bangladesh
• Role: Economist, Academic, Former Governor of Bangladesh Bank
• Key Contributions:
  • Early Life and Education: Dr. Atiur Rahman grew up in a modest family, which instilled in him the values of education and hard work. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Dhaka and later earned his Master’s and Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the United States. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his future contributions to economics and finance.
  • Career in Academia: Dr. Rahman began his career as a lecturer in economics at the University of Dhaka. His dedication to teaching and research quickly established him as a prominent figure in the field of economics. He later became a professor and served in various academic and administrative positions, promoting economic research and policy analysis.
  • Role as Governor of Bangladesh Bank: Appointed as the Governor of Bangladesh Bank in 2009, Dr. Rahman served in this role until 2016. During his tenure, he focused on several critical areas, including enhancing the stability of the financial system, promoting financial inclusion, and fostering sustainable economic growth. His leadership during the global financial crisis helped maintain confidence in the Bangladeshi banking sector.
  • Promotion of Financial Inclusion: Dr. Rahman was a strong advocate for financial inclusion, emphasizing the need to provide banking services to the unbanked population, especially women and rural communities. He played a crucial role in implementing policies that encouraged microfinance and small loan initiatives, helping many low-income individuals access credit and improve their livelihoods.
  • Policy Contributions: Under his leadership, Bangladesh Bank adopted innovative policies aimed at modernizing the banking sector. He promoted digital banking, mobile financial services, and the use of technology to enhance the efficiency of financial services. His efforts contributed to increasing access to finance and improving the overall banking infrastructure in Bangladesh.
  • Awards and Recognition: Dr. Atiur Rahman received numerous accolades for his contributions to economics and finance, including the “Best Central Bank Governor” award from various international organizations. He is recognized for his commitment to sustainable development and his efforts to integrate social and environmental considerations into economic policies.
  • Legacy: Dr. Rahman’s impact on the banking sector and economic policy in Bangladesh is significant. He is remembered for his vision of a more inclusive and sustainable financial system that supports economic growth and empowers marginalized communities. His work continues to inspire economists and policymakers in Bangladesh and beyond.
  • Philosophy: Dr. Atiur Rahman believes that “economic growth must be inclusive and sustainable, ensuring that no one is left behind.” He emphasizes the importance of integrating social justice into economic policies to achieve long-term prosperity.
• Famous Quote: “Inclusion in finance is not just a goal; it is a necessity for equitable growth and development.”