"POPI's Grand Celebration: Honouring Excellence in the 'Reaching for the Stars' Event

POPI, the prominent national NGO, hosted a dazzling event, "Reaching for the Stars: Celebrating Excellence in Performance," at the Shimanto Square Convention Centre on Friday, 23rd February 2024. This day-long ceremony aimed to honour and acknowledge the exceptional performance of dedicated POPI professionals throughout the fiscal year 2022-2023.

The festivities commenced with a warm welcome at half-past nine, followed by an official inauguration ceremony at ten. Distinguished guests graced the occasion, with Mr. Md. Fashiullah, Executive Vice Chairman of the Microcredit Regulatory Authority (MRA), serving as the esteemed Chief Guest.

A total of 106 POPI employees from various levels were recognised as the Stars of the Year 2022-2023, receiving crests and monetary gifts for their outstanding contributions. Mr. Fashiullah lauded POPI's initiative to celebrate its standout contributors and changemakers, commending the commitment and dedication displayed by Mr. Murshed Alam Sarker, POPI's Executive Director.

Mr. Abdul Awal, Executive Director of the Credit Development Forum (CDF), expressed his enthusiasm for recent advancements in the microfinance sector. He highlighted significant milestones achieved under MRA's leadership, such as the inclusion of Credit Information Bureau (CIB) and Savings Information Bureau (SIB), which are expected to bring substantial improvements to the microcredit operation landscape.

Among other renowned guests, Mr Mohammad Serajuddowla Babul, Mr. Mohammad Shohel Helal, and Mr. Ashraful Alam Alam Helal applauded the event and pledged their well wishes for POPI's future endeavours.

The highlight of the event was the award ceremony at eleven, where exceptional POPI professionals were recognised for their outstanding contributions. This was followed by captivating cultural performances at three, adding a festive touch to the celebration. POPI Microfinance Director Mr. Md. Moshihur Rahman led the festivity from the front.

Mr. Murshed Alam Sarker expressed his appreciation for the tireless efforts of POPI's front-line employees, emphasising their significant role in realising POPI's vision. The event concluded at five, leaving a lasting impression on the participants and solidifying POPI's commitment to recognising and rewarding its dedicated workforce."