Grameen Bank Honors Founder Muhammad Yunus on 50th Anniversary

Upon his arrival at the headquarters, Professor Yunus was warmly welcomed by the bank’s chairman, board members, managing director, and senior management team. He later addressed a Town Hall session as the chief guest, speaking to staff members across various levels.

In his remarks, Professor Yunus reflected on the early challenges of establishing Grameen Bank. He noted that the idea of microcredit emerged from the harsh realities of the 1974 famine. At that time, the initiative began by providing just five taka loans to poor women in Jobra village, Chattogram, enabling them to make and sell bamboo baskets. Professor Yunus highlighted how these women overcame obstacles, became self-reliant, gained literacy, strengthened their roles within families and society, and ultimately contributed to a larger social movement.

The press release also mentioned that this was Professor Yunus’s first visit to the Grameen Bank headquarters since stepping down as managing director in 2011. During the visit, he engaged with former colleagues, offered guidance on making the bank’s ongoing activities more dynamic and inclusive, and shared insights on the bank’s future direction.

At the conclusion of the program, Professor Yunus toured his former residence within the Grameen Bank complex and the Grameen Check stall. The day ended with a photo session with officials and a luncheon at the training center canteen.