A Beacon of Hope: Celebrating 50 Years of
the Christian Commission for Development in Bangladesh (CCDB)
The Christian Commission for Development in Bangladesh (CCDB), a leading development organization in community empowerment and sustainable development, marked its 50th anniversary with a grand celebration at the PSC Convention Hall in Dhaka on April 27, 2024. Over the past five decades, CCDB has significantly impacted lives across Bangladesh, fostering the creation of people’s organizations, networks, and sustainable infrastructure. By introducing innovative, cost-effective technologies, CCDB has empowered communities and driven progress nationwide. Since its inception, CCDB has played a vital role in providing non-formal education and skills training, enabling individuals to emerge as community leaders, regardless of caste, creed, religion, or gender. Today, CCDB remains committed to empowering communities and improving lives. The event began with the national anthem and a flag-raising ceremony at the PSC Convention Hall. The gathering included special guests, community members, and the CCDB team. Distinguished attendees included Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario, representative of the Pope; Canadian High Commissioner Lily Nicholos; Aileen Alma, Executive Director of the Coady Institute; and leaders from various religious and global organizations.
CCDB’s Executive Director, Juliate Keya Malakar, expressed gratitude to the organization’s founders and reaffirmed its commitment to combating poverty, inequality, women empowerment, environmental challenges for the development of people. She urged collaboration among all stakeholders, stating, “We have so much to do, and we must do it together,” and hoped the next generation would celebrate CCDB’s centenary, continuing its mission for a just society. Canadian High Commissioner Lily Nicholos expressed her honor at the event, highlighting its interfaith approach that reflects the values of respect, inclusion, and diversity upheld by CCDB by congratulating CCDB for evolving from a relief organization to a leader in sustainable development, emphasizing community empowerment and women’s leadership. She expressed pride in Canada’s role and hoped for continued collaboration.
The event recognized community leaders who shared their stories of progress with CCDB’s support. Alo Maria Sardar of the Dolonchapa Forum expressed gratitude, likening CCDB’s guidance to a parent helping a child walk. She emphasized CCDB’s role in empowering marginalized individuals in Bangladesh. Md. Abul Hossain described his community’s journey toward climate resilience, thanks to CCDB’s introduction of climate-tolerant farming and soil salinity solutions. CCDB honored former employees and community members vital to its success. Dr. Sarosh Koshy, Global Relations Minister of Southern Asia Global Ministries of the Christian Church of Christ, commended CCDB for its participatory development approach, highlighting its role as a leader in equitable and sustainable development in Bangladesh and South Asia.
Aileen Alma, Executive Director of the Coady Institute, expressed her enthusiasm for the shared values between CCDB and the Institute. She highlighted their partnership, built on mutual learning and experiences, and voiced hopes for continued collaboration in the future. Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario, Archbishop Emeritus, invoked the teachings of Jesus Christ, celebrating CCDB’s ecumenical spirit and its work in fostering a just and caring human society. Md. Saidur Rahman, Director General of the NGO Affairs Bureau, reaffirmed government support for CCDB’s humanitarian efforts in health, education, climate change, and poverty reduction, emphasizing its role in building a new Bangladesh. David A. Halder, Chairman of the CCDB Commission, emphasized the importance of reflecting on the past and planning for the future. Since 1973, CCDB has been dedicated to creating a society where individuals can live in peace and harmony.
The event resonated with stories of resilience, empowerment, and progress, as community members shared how CCDB’s initiatives had helped them overcome challenges, acquire new skills, and improve their livelihoods. From women breaking barriers to become entrepreneurs to youth pursuing education and brighter futures, each story underscored CCDB’s profound impact.
50 Years Event of CCDB
