Students will get international standard certificates
United Nations Development Programme Bangladesh, in partnership with the University of Dhaka’s Center for Policy Research on Business and Development (CPRBD), has launched an international certification programme aimed at strengthening Bangladesh’s inclusive insurance sector.
The “International Certification in Inclusive Insurance” was formally inaugurated at Dhaka University on May 5 under UNDP’s Insurance and Risk Finance Facility (IRFF), a global initiative designed to expand financial protection for vulnerable populations.
The programme seeks to address long-standing gaps in technical expertise that have slowed the growth of inclusive insurance in Bangladesh. It aims to equip professionals with the skills needed to design, deliver and expand insurance solutions for low-income families, micro-entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises, and underserved communities.
Inclusive insurance is increasingly viewed as a key instrument for improving economic resilience, particularly for people exposed to climate risks, health emergencies, financial instability and other shocks.
The certification course will support professionals from insurance companies, banks, microfinance institutions, NGOs, digital platforms and government agencies by enhancing their capacity in product design, customer engagement, distribution strategies, servicing and claims management.
Speaking as a special guest, Md. Shahidul Islam Zahid, Chairman of the Department of Banking and Insurance at Dhaka University, said inclusive insurance is essential for building a resilient and equitable economy.
“This certification marks an important step in bridging the skills gap and preparing professionals to develop solutions that genuinely respond to the needs of underserved communities,” he said.
Abul Khayer, Chairman of the Department of International Business, said the initiative combines international standards with a nationally rooted academic framework.
“It positions Bangladesh to lead in developing inclusive, customer-focused insurance systems capable of protecting livelihoods at scale,” he added.
The programme was chaired by Mahmood Osman Imam, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies at Dhaka University. UNDP IRFF National Programme Officer Monirul Hoque delivered the keynote presentation, while Aditi Shams coordinated the event.
Organisers said the initiative is expected to create a pool of internationally certified professionals and trainers through a Training of Trainers model, while also strengthening customer-centric practices across the insurance industry.
The programme will further help institutionalise national training capacity within Dhaka University, supporting broader efforts to expand equitable risk protection and financial inclusion across Bangladesh.
