世界银行2024年在孟加拉国（英）-142页_9mb

World Bank's Engagement in Bangladesh 2024: Summary

The World Bank has been a key partner in Bangladesh's development since independence, committing approximately $40 billion through grants, interest-free, and concessional financing to support poverty reduction, shared prosperity, and economic growth. As of 2024, the Country Partnership Framework (CPF) focuses on transforming Bangladesh into an upper-middle-income country by 2031, with priorities on enhancing competitiveness, resilience, and inclusivity, while addressing climate change and improving human capital. The CPF is aligned with Bangladesh's national plans, including the Eighth Five-Year Plan and Long-Term Perspective Plan, and supports sectors such as education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, and social protection.

Education

Key projects aim to improve access, quality, and equity in education. The Quality Learning for All Program (QLEAP) targets pre-primary to grade 5 education, seeking 50% competency in grades III for language and mathematics. The Accelerating and Strengthening Skills for Economic Transformation (ASSET) project focuses on equipping youth and women with skills for the labor market, aiming for 15% higher employment rates. The Higher Education Acceleration and Transformation (HEAT) Project enhances university infrastructure and online learning, while the Economic Acceleration and Resilience for NEET Youth (EARN) project targets out-of-school youth, particularly females, offering education and employment opportunities. Challenges include low learning outcomes, overcrowding, and financing gaps, with a focus on digital integration and inclusive growth.

Health, Nutrition, and Population

The COVID-19 emergency response mobilized resources for healthcare infrastructure, vaccination, and treatment, reducing mortality. Projects like the Health Sector Support Project ensured routine immunization and maternal health services, while the Urban Health, Nutrition and Population initiative addresses urban disparities, such as dengue and non-communicable diseases. Ongoing efforts include climate-resilient health systems and reproductive health services, with an emphasis on equity and pandemic preparedness.

Agriculture and Food Security

Bangladesh faces climate vulnerabilities, but projects like the Climate-Smart Agriculture and Water Management Project aim for 30% productivity increases in key crops. Initiatives include modern food storage facilities, livestock development, and diversification to high-value products, supporting rural livelihoods and climate adaptation. Challenges involve inefficient irrigation, soil degradation, and the need for sustainable farming practices.

Social Protection and Jobs

The Safety Net Systems for the Poorest and Cash Transfer Modernization Project use digital tools to improve transparency and efficiency in social assistance, benefiting over 11 million people. The Recovery and Advancement of Informal Sector Employment Project supports microentrepreneurs and youth, while programs like the Bangladesh Enhancing Investments and Benefits for Early Years focus on early childhood development to reduce poverty cycles.

Environment and Natural Resources

Projects promote green growth, with the Bangladesh Environmental Sustainability and Transformation (BEST) Project investing in air quality monitoring and waste management. Initiatives like the Sustainable Forest and Livelihood Project enhance forest cover, and climate-resilient infrastructure reduces disaster risks. Gender dimensions are integrated, supporting women's participation in environmental and economic activities.

Selected Cross-Sector Highlights

• Urban Development: Projects like the Dhaka City Neighborhood Upgrading and Urban Resilience initiatives improve infrastructure and disaster preparedness.
• Energy: Renewable energy scaling helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, with projects on solar power and grid efficiency.
• Transport and Connectivity: Investments in waterways, roads, and border crossings boost regional trade, but challenges like infrastructure gaps and regulatory hurdles persist.

Overall, the World Bank's support spans 55+ projects with commitments exceeding $2 billion by 2024, contributing to Bangladesh's vision of sustainable growth, climate resilience, and poverty reduction while fostering inclusive and gender-responsive development.