Event Report: 8th SRHR Knowledge Fair 2023 on SRHR & Education – For Smart Bangladesh

Last Thursday (7 September, 2023), Share-Net Bangladesh successfully held its 8th SRHR Knowledge Fair 2023, at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center. This year’s theme, “SRHR & Education – For Smart Bangladesh,” brought together government officials, experts, and advocates to address the critical intersection of SRHR and education in the country. 

The 8th SRHR Knowledge Fair was jointly presented with Aspire to Innovate (a2i) as the Strategic Partner. Also, the Directorate of Secondary & Higher Education extended invaluable support and guidance to Share-Net Bangladesh throughout the conference. The whole event was organised by RedOrange Communications, the host organisation of Share-Net in Bangladesh. 

Share-Net Knowledge Fair served as a platform to explore the importance of comprehensive SRHR education in shaping a healthier and more empowered future for Bangladesh. It emphasised the need for quality information and education to enable individuals to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health. 

Md. Kamal Hossain, Senior Secretary, Technical and Madrasah Education Division, Ministry of Education, said in his speech as Chief Guest: “We are committed to ensuring that every young person in Bangladesh has access to accurate and age-appropriate information about their sexual and reproductive health, empowering them to make informed decisions for a healthier future.”

Ms. Kristine Blokhus, Country Representative, UNFPA; said in her speech – “By integrating SRHR education into the broader educational framework, we can equip the younger generation with the knowledge and skills they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.”

“The Netherlands supports initiatives that prioritise the well-being of young people through comprehensive SRHR education. It’s a step toward building a brighter future for Bangladesh.” Mr. Thijs Woudstra, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; said in his speech as the Chief Guest of the grand Finale session. 

Professor Dr. Sayeda Shahina Subhan, Director, Centre for Medical Education (CME), Directorate General of Medical Education, said in her speech – “Quality SRHR education is essential for healthcare professionals too. It equips them with the knowledge and sensitivity needed to provide effective reproductive healthcare.”

This year’s Knowledge Fair featured a diverse range of sessions, discussions, and presentations focusing on integrating SRHR into formal and informal education systems. It provided a platform for experts and stakeholders to share innovative approaches, research findings, and success stories in the fields of SRHR and education. The event was attended by a mix of government officials, academicians, healthcare professionals, members of civil society, and international delegates. 

The fair ended by presenting the Share-Net SRHR Recognition Award 2023 in three categories: the ‘Youth Leadership Award’ was given to Robin Mia, a youth leader working for DGFP-Mymensingh division; the ‘Community Champion Award’ was given to Amzad Hossain Chowdhury, a teacher and menstrual health advocate; and the ‘Lifetime Achievement Recognition’ was given to Dr. Ubaidur Rob, Country Director of Population Council Bangladesh, for his tremendous contribution in the field of SRHR. 

Among the other prominent guests present at the event were NCTB’s Chairman, Mohammad Farhadul Islam; Md Belayet Hossain Talukder, Additional Secretary, Secondary and Higher Education Division, Ministry of Education; Mr. Md. Kamal Hossain, Senior Secretary, Technical and Madrasa Education Department, Ministry of Education; Professor Dr. AQM Shafiul Azam, Director (Planning and Development) Director, Planning and Development Wing, Directorate Of Secondary & Higher Education; Asaduzzaman Noor, MP, former Minister of Culture; Ms. Doreen Thomisen, Coordinator of ShareNet International; and many more. 

Download 8th SRHR Knowledge Fair 2023 (Event Report)