Social Business Evolves into Global Movement: Yunus

Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said social business has grown beyond a concept and is now a global movement driving change across communities and nations.

“Social business is no longer just an idea — it has become a worldwide movement,” he said in a special video message during the ‘Social Business Academia Dialogue’ and ‘Three Zero Club Convention’ jointly organised by North South University (NSU) and Yunus Centre.

He praised NSU for its role in advancing the concept of social business in Bangladesh. “Through the Social Business Forum and fostering a culture of innovation, NSU has set a strong example for others to follow,” Prof Yunus noted.

He reiterated the mission of achieving “Three Zeros” — zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions. “Through this, we aim to build a fair, liveable, and sustainable world for all,” he said.

The event also marked Prof Yunus’ birthday, which he celebrated with the global social business community.

Health and Family Welfare Affairs Adviser Nurjahan Begum attended the event as the chief guest. Special guests included Social Welfare Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid, SDG Affairs Coordinator at the Chief Adviser’s Office Lamia Morshed, and Chairman of NSU Board of Trustees and City Bank PLC Aziz Al Kaiser.In her remarks, Nurjahan Begum said achieving the Three Zero goals requires shifting focus beyond profits. “We must prioritise social impact, environmental responsibility, and people’s wellbeing. Access to healthcare should also be central to our development strategy,” she added.

Sharmeen S Murshid said social business is rooted in empathy, not greed. “It’s not about taking from the poor, but empowering them. Achieving the Three Zeros is not a dream, but a journey towards dignity, employment, and a healthier planet.”

Lamia Morshed noted that the event’s theme reflects both global imperatives and Prof Yunus’ enduring vision. “His work has inspired millions worldwide. I hope this programme furthers that inspiration.”

The programme was chaired by NSU Vice-Chancellor and Grameen Bank Chairman Professor Atiqul Islam.

As part of the event, NSU inaugurated three new centres: the NSU Social Business Centre, the NSU Social Impact and Sustainability Centre, and the NSU Climate and Disaster Resilience Centre.