A new research-based institution, the Foundation for Strategic and Development Studies (FSDS), was officially launched in Dhaka yesterday(February 23) with the goal of enhancing policy research and strategic analysis in Bangladesh.  
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel, gathering prominent military officials, political leaders, academics, and media personalities.  

FSDS Chairman Major General (retd) Fazle Elahi Akbar opened the event by outlining the institution's objectives, which include conducting research on governance, national security, development, and policymaking processes. He emphasized the importance of evidence-based research in driving national growth and ensuring strategic stability.  
The ceremony was attended by top military officials, including Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman, Navy Chief Admiral Mohammad Nazmul Hasan, and Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan. Former army chiefs Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Huq and M. Nuruddin Khan, alongside other retired military officials, were also present.  
Keynote speeches were delivered by several distinguished figures, including economist Professor Mahbubullah, political scientist Professor Dilara Chowdhury, legal expert Professor Rohan Uddin Khan, and Jahangirnagar University Vice-Chancellor Professor Kamrul Ahsan. Their discussions highlighted the necessity of strategic research to shape national policies and development initiatives.  

The event also witnessed participation from prominent political leaders across party lines. Notable attendees included BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and senior BNP members Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, and Shama Obaed. Leaders from other political groups, such as Mahmudur Rahman Manna of Nagarik Oikya, Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher of Jamaat-e-Islami, and Bobby Hajjaj of the National Democratic Movement, were also present.  
Members of the media were well-represented, with notable attendees including Mahfuz Anam, Editor of The Daily Star; Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, Editor-in-Chief of Manabzamin; Kamal Uddin Shobuj, Editor of Desh Rupantor; and Abdus Salam, Chairman of Ekushey Television.  
The launch of FSDS marks a significant step towards fostering independent research and policy analysis aimed at strengthening Bangladesh’s governance, security, and development strategies.
 

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