The chief economist of the World Bank, Mr. Kausik Basu, has described the economic progress of Bangladesh as astonishing. Mr. Basu has previously worked in Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS), has experience in working in Bangladesh and is now is now the chief economist at the World Bank, having also advised Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government in the past. He mentions in an interview, having discovered a new Bangladesh developing in the sector of education, health and human development which had been far more difficult to gauge ten years ago. Bangladesh’s economy is growing steadily whereas other countries all over the world are facing economic crisis. According to him Bangladesh has been maintaining a steady growth rate of GDP 6% for the last five years. He predicts it can reach up to 7% in the coming year if everything goes well. He imagined preparing a growth chart of all countries of the world and picturing Bangladesh at the top. He pressed hard on the development of social sector as well (life expectancy at birth, infant mortality etc.) which consequently plays a huge role in developing a nation’s economy. British Council Bangladesh is always keeping a close eye on the country’s economic and social progress and indicators, especially to understand the development it will bring about in the higher education sector. Watch this space for more updates and news. Read the full report here