The Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) has called for a dedicated taskforce to curb corruption in development projects and demanded a formal service framework for private-sector engineers, citing governance gaps and workforce challenges in the country’s engineering sector.
The demands were raised at a high-level media interaction on Wednesday at the IEB headquarters in Ramna, marking the organization’s 78th founding anniversary, observed as Engineers’ Day.
The event brought together editors, chief reporters, news editors and senior journalists from across the country, reflecting efforts to align engineering priorities with national policy discourse.
The session was presided over by IEB President Engineer Mohammad Reazul Islam (Rezu) and moderated by Honorary Assistant General Secretary (Administration and Finance) Engineer Muhammad Ahsanul Rasel. Discussions focused on governance gaps in development projects, workforce challenges and the future of Bangladesh’s engineering sector.
Engineer Reazul Islam raised concerns over irregularities in past development projects, saying weak oversight and lack of accountability had undermined efficiency in several cases.
“To ensure transparency and accountability in project implementation, IEB plans to form a taskforce comprising experienced professionals,” he said.
He added: “Engineering is not just about building structures—it is about ensuring systems work with integrity. Without accountability, even the best plan can fail.”
The proposed taskforce is expected to provide technical input, monitor project standards and recommend corrective measures, potentially positioning IEB as a more active stakeholder in development oversight.
A major focus of the discussion was the condition of private-sector engineers, who account for more than 70% of the country’s engineering workforce.
Presenting the keynote overview, IEB Honorary General Secretary Prof Dr Engr Md Sabbir Mostafa Khan described the absence of a structured service framework as a “critical policy gap.”
“Despite contributing directly to the implementation of most development projects, private-sector engineers face low salaries, job insecurity and limited benefits. In many cases, they can be dismissed without notice,” he said.
He said a national service rule for private-sector engineers would protect professional rights and improve productivity and project quality.
“This is no longer just a professional demand—it is an economic necessity,” he said, urging government intervention.
Industry participants echoed concerns over inconsistent employment standards, noting that instability often leads to high turnover, skill loss and project delays.
IEB leaders also called for placing qualified engineers in leadership roles across engineering institutions and state-owned enterprises.
Prof Sabbir said non-technical appointments to senior positions often result in weak decision-making and inefficient project outcomes.
“Engineering organizations require engineering leadership. managing director and board-level positions should be filled by technically competent professionals,” he said.
He further stressed that project directors (PDs) in development projects should be qualified engineers to ensure technical priorities are properly addressed from planning to execution.
Another concern raised was the prolonged practice of keeping engineers in acting or additional charge roles, which delays promotions and affects morale.
IEB leaders urged timely promotions and structured grading systems based on service conditions, saying institutional efficiency depends on a motivated workforce.
In his welcome address, IEB Vice President (Administration and Finance) Engineer ATM Tanbir-ul Hasan (Tamal) highlighted the role of the media in bridging technical communities and the public.
“The media is essential in shaping public understanding of development and professional contributions,” he said, adding that closer collaboration would help highlight engineering priorities.
He noted that as Bangladesh moves toward a technology-driven economy, stronger engagement between engineers and journalists will be crucial for informed public discourse.
Highlighting internal reforms, Engineer Reazul Islam said IEB had improved transparency in membership processes, resulting in the inclusion of around 12,000 new members during the current committee’s tenure.
He said the expansion reflects efforts to revitalize the institution and strengthen its role as the country’s leading professional body for engineers.
The event was attended by senior IEB leaders, including Vice President (Academic and International) Engr Khan Monjur Morshed, Vice President (HRD) Engr Sheikh Al Amin, Vice President (S&DW) Engr Niaz Uddin Bhuiyan, and other officials.
Senior media figures, including editors and journalists from television channels, newspapers and online platforms, also participated.
Speakers stressed the need for sustained dialogue among policymakers, engineers and the media to address systemic challenges in the sector.
IEB leaders said they plan to institutionalize such engagements, focusing on energy security, sustainable infrastructure, climate resilience and the transition to a technology-driven economy.
The discussions underscored a central message: without stronger governance, professional protection and technical leadership, Bangladesh’s development ambitions may face significant challenges.