Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today said Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD)'s research and public awareness activities played a huge role in creating the mindset for the recent student uprising.

He also said that the research organization has always been involved in establishing a democratic, just and accountable society.

The chief adviser made the remark in a video message played at a programme organised here marking the 30th anniversary of CPD.

He said the CPD has been able to establish itself as a reliable and fearless institution for the people of the country through various activities over the past 30 years.

"That is why this institution always holds special significance for me," Prof Yunus said.

Noting that Bangladesh is now going through a crucial time, he said, "I hope that CPD will continue its intellectual contribution in the present and future as it did so in the past and will contribute to the welfare of the country and its people".

He wished CPD's greater role and success in the coming days for the needs of the country.

As a founding trustee of CPD, Prof Yunus extended his heartfelt congratulations to all associated with the organisation.

"Today, I would like to specially congratulate my teacher Professor Rehman Sobhan, the founder of CPD. He has been playing a unique role in the country at different times," he said.

Claiming that CPD has been recognised as a renowned research institution at home and abroad in its long journey of 30 years, the 2006 Nobel Peace Laureate said CPD has always thought independently, standing against the trend and has tried to provide important advice to policymakers at different times in the interest of the country.

"The efforts I have made throughout my life to change the overall condition of the country's people and to eradicate poverty have always been reflected in the works of CPD," he said.

The chief adviser said realising the need for dialogue between different groups, CPD organises regular policy dialogues at different times, many of which he had personally attended. 

He said the CPD policy analysis and research activities have brought a huge change in the overall thinking structure of the country.