Youth Conclave 2025 by Plan Intl. Bangladesh: Youth Should Take Charge to Build a Better Bangladesh

In the fight against child marriage and lack of reproductive health knowledge, the youth of Bangladesh has been taking the lead for almost two decade. Recently “Youth Conclave 2025” conference jointly organised by Plan International Bangladesh and Prothom Alo’s Bondhu Shobha brought over 100 young changemakers from across the country to Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, Dhaka, on Saturday—highlighting the need for youth leadership in tackling sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) issues.

At a time when child marriage is rising in both rural and urban areas and adolescents lack access to basic sexual and reproductive health knowledge, speakers at the event called for empowering youth voices to bring change.

“Youth are the warriors to solve all problems,” said Kavita Bose, Country Director of Plan International Bangladesh. “They must move forward with new initiatives and never lose hope—even during difficult times.”

The day-long event focused on critical themes—ending child marriage, breaking taboos around reproductive health, and promoting youth-centric leadership.

Speakers emphasised leadership qualities like confidence, humility, critical thinking, and the ability to listen. In a dynamic leadership session led by Miftah Zaman, founder of ReLearn, participants explored how real leadership means creating lasting impact. “A true leader’s influence lives on even after they are gone,” he said.

Plan International Bangladesh’s Nishath Sultana highlighted that “this is the era of youth,” urging for the proper channeling of young people’s energy and creativity to transform Bangladesh.

The event also celebrated innovation through awards to four youth-led organisations:

• Odommo ’19 Youth Foundation (Mymensingh) works on SRHR, climate change, and education, focusing on raising awareness among schoolgirls.

• Shurjodoy Youth Society (Dhaka) trains youth in climate and gender justice.

• VAST Youth Forum (Bogura) builds skills among marginalised youth.

• Kashful Foundation (Dhaka) focuses on digital rights and women’s role in climate action.

“SRHR is still a taboo. We want to change that through school-based awareness,” said Tayeb Mridha, founder of Odommo ’19.

The event concluded with workshops on how child marriage impacts both boys and girls and an in-depth session on reproductive health by SRHR expert Syed Nooruddin.

As Bangladesh moves toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, such youth-led actions are vital. According to UNICEF, over 50% of Bangladeshi girls are married before 18, and limited access to SRHR education remains a barrier. This conference is a call to action: youth must not only be heard—they must be in charge.

Source: Daily Prothom Alo