STAR BUSINESS DESK

Eastern Bank PLC’s (EBL) flagship mobile banking platform, EBL Skybanking, has received the “Recognition for Accessible Initiatives” award for its contribution to building an inclusive and accessible digital banking ecosystem in Bangladesh. EBL Skybanking was the only banking platform to receive the honour.

According to a press release, the award was presented at a programme organised by Aspire to Innovate (a2i) marking Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2026, held on May 21 at the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Auditorium in Dhaka. Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam and State Minister for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin jointly handed over the award to M Khorshed Anowar, deputy managing director and head of retail and SME banking of EBL.

EBL Skybanking earned the recognition for its continued efforts to provide accessible, secure, and user-friendly financial services for all customers, including persons with visual impairments. The EBL app features several accessibility-focused solutions such as screen reader compatibility, voice-assisted navigation, biometric login, and instant transaction alerts, ensuring a seamless banking experience for diverse user groups.

Speaking at the event, Fakir Mahbub Anam emphasised that ensuring equal access to digital services for persons with disabilities remains a key government priority. “This is not a matter of charity; it is their right,” he said, underscoring the importance of aligning technology with people’s diverse needs and abilities.

Farzana Sharmin said universal digital accessibility is essential to building an inclusive Bangladesh and reaffirmed the government’s support for initiatives that promote accessibility and inclusion.

Through innovative digital solutions, EBL continues to strengthen financial inclusion, encourage cashless transactions, and contribute to Bangladesh’s expanding digital economy.

Representing EBL at the event were Ahsan Ullah Chowdhury, head of digital financial services; Sanjit Dutta, head of application development and technology solutions; and Amin Md Mehedi Hasan, head of digital banking and ADC, among others.

The event was co-organised by Friendship and Sightsavers. The programme was chaired by Kazi Anwar Hossain, secretary of the ICT Division.