bKash and the Institute for Advanced Research (IAR) of United International University (UIU) have partnered to conduct collaborative research on the adaptation of digital transactions and their socioeconomic impact.
Titled ‘Exploring Digital Transaction Adaptation in Bangladesh: Drivers, Social Outcomes, and Policy Implication’, the research aims to assesses how digital transactions impacts on living standard, women empowerment, financial resilience and the role of MFS in that improvement in the country.
The widespread adoption of digital transactions, driven by continuous innovation from MFS and Banks, growing digital literacy, an extensive financial ecosystem and regulatory support, has significantly transformed people’s financial behaviors.
The study will explore data and empirical facts about how deeply this transformation has changed the way people adopt, trust and use digital transactions, and identify the challenges.
In this regard, an agreement was signed recently held at UIU campus.
Prof Md Abul Kashem Mia, vice chancellor of United International University (UIU), M Rezwan Khan, Professor Emeritus, Dept. of EEE & Executive Director, IAR; M Mazedul Islam, chief legal officer of bKash, Shahriar Mahmood, EVP and HOD, employer branding & recruitment, bKash, and senior officials of both the organizations were present on the occasion.
The study will examine the key factors influencing people’s adaptation of digital transactions in the country.
It will also assess the roles of financial service providers and government support in encouraging wider use of digital transactions.
Beyond identifying the drivers of adoption, the research will explore how digital transactions influence broader social outcomes.
Particular attention will be given to examine how trust and perceived social norms shape the relationship between digital literacy and the adoption of digital transactions.
The findings are expected to provide useful insights for financial service providers, researchers and policymakers working to build a more inclusive and resilient digital financial ecosystem in Bangladesh.
