The department of Development Studies under the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Bangladesh University of Professionals organised a seminar titled ‘Policy process, institutional reform and sustainable Development in Bangladesh: contemporary issues and challenges’ on May 26, 2025. The timely and thought-provoking seminar brought together policymakers, academics, development professionals, and students to critically explore the intersections of governance, policy reform, and sustainable development in the context of Bangladesh. Asif Mohammad Shahan, professor, department of development studies, University of Dhaka presented the keynote while assistant professors Shashish Shami Kamal and Tanjila Afrin, both from the department of development studies, BUP were present as panel speakers. Among others, BUP high officials, faculty members and students attended. Topics included bureaucratic efficiency, governance challenges, policy alignment with SDGs, and institutional accountability at both national and international levels. Participants gained valuable insights into the complexities of Bangladesh’s policy landscape and the importance of institutional capacity in achieving sustainable development. The seminar facilitated informed discussions, encouraged interdepartmental collaboration, and generated practical recommendations aimed at enhancing policy effectiveness, transparency, and governance structures. The seminar successfully created a platform for meaningful exchange on pressing policy and development issues in Bangladesh. It reinforced the importance of inclusive, transparent, and strategic policymaking supported by institutional reforms to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience across sectors.