JnU Correspondent :
In a recent training session organized by the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority, Professor Dr. Sadeka Halim, Vice-Chancellor of Jagannath University and former Information Commissioner, underscored the critical importance of transparency and accountability through the Right to Information Act. Addressing over two hundred attendees, both in-person and online, Dr. Halim reiterated that transparency and accountability are fundamental pillars of democracy, and every government employee is obligated to uphold these principles.
Dr. Halim emphasized that information is not to be hoarded but shared freely with the public, as it is their right. She commended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s efforts in ensuring this right for the people through the Right to Information Act, which has significantly contributed to fostering transparency and accountability among government employees.
During the training session, Dr. Halim urged government employees to adhere to proper procedures when providing information to the media or the general public.
She emphasized that information should be made available to service recipients in the manner they request it, thereby facilitating greater access to information.
Furthermore, Dr. Halim highlighted the pressing need to raise awareness about food adulteration and public health. She called upon officials to remain vigilant and prioritize the nutritional quality of food, stressing the importance of stringent measures to combat food adulteration.
Chairing the training program, Mr. Zakaria, Chairman of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority, echoed Dr. Halim’s sentiments, emphasizing the Authority’s commitment to ensuring consumers’ rights and maintaining the appropriate quality of food.
The training session concluded with a question-and-answer session, during which all attendees had the opportunity to engage with the topics discussed. The event saw full participation from all employees of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority, reaffirming their dedication to upholding transparency, accountability, and public welfare
