Moon Desk: The Population Services and Training Center (PSTC) hosted a dissemination session on 11 December 2024, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Gulshan 2, Dhaka, to share the findings of an exploratory study titled “Needs and Barriers of Accessing SRH Services among the Rohingya Population Living in Coastal Camps in Bangladesh.” The event aimed to shed light on the challenges faced by the Rohingya population in accessing Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services and to spark critical discussions on improving service delivery for vulnerable communities.
The session was graced by the Chief Guest, Mr. Md. Saifullahil Azam, Director General (Grade I), Directorate General of Family Planning, who emphasized in his speech the importance of inclusive and accessible SRH services for marginalized populations.
Special Guests included Mr. Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, RRRC (Additional Secretary) based in Cox’s Bazar; Mr. Nick McLean, First Secretary (Humanitarian) of the Australian High Commission in Bangladesh; and Mr Ismail Hossain, Former Educational Secretary, Ministry of Youth & Development, Government of Bangladesh. Each shared their perspectives on how to overcome systemic challenges and ensure equitable SRH services in the region.
The session began with a presentation of key findings by the research team, followed by a panel discussion featuring esteemed experts and practitioners. The panel consisted of Dr Arpita Das, Senior Technical Advisor, IPPF (SARO), Mr. Kazi Amdadul Hoque, Senior Director, Strategic Planning and Head of climate change, Friendship International, Mr. Al Mamun, Country Director, BBC Media Action, and Mr. Faisal Shabbir, Architect of Cooperation from IPPF. The panel provided actionable recommendations to address the identified barriers and enhance SRH service accessibility for the Rohingya community.
PSTC’s Executive Director, Dr. Noor Mohammad, in his welcome remarks, highlighted the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting underprivileged communities and fostering partnerships to improve health outcomes. He also facilitated the interactive segment of the event, encouraging participants to contribute their insights.
PSTC, a non-profit organization with 46 years of experience in development work across Bangladesh, has consistently championed initiatives that promote health equity and social justice.
The session began with a presentation by Professor Dr. Bellal Hossain on the findings of the research team. This was followed by a panel discussion with esteemed experts and stakeholders. The panel discussion was attended by Dr. Arpita Das, Senior Technical Advisor, IPPF, Kazi Emdadul Haque, Strategic, Learning and Head of Climate Action, Fellowship International, Al Mamun, Country Director, BBC Media Action and Faisal Sabbir, AOC, IPPF.
