9th SRHR Knowledge Fair Promotes “YouthPower”: Youth-Driven SRHR Advocacy Should be Employed in Bangladesh
“There is no doubt that it is youth that shapes the future of a country,” said Md Saifullahil Azam, Director General of the Directorate of Family Planning (DGFP), in his opening remarks at the 9th Annual SRHR Knowledge Fair 2024, held in Dhaka.
Organised by Share-Net Bangladesh (SNBD) and RedOrange Communications, the event aimed to empower youth to advocate for their rights and become leaders in Bangladesh’s development journey. With the theme “YouthPower 2024: Nothing Without Us,” the event attracted government officials, SRHR experts, university students, and professionals, all gathered to champion the role of youth in shaping a just and equitable society.
The opening ceremony set a powerful tone, as Azam stressed the importance of youth participation in policy-making and social change. Noting that 47% of Bangladesh’s population is under 25, he emphasised the country’s potential to leverage its demographic dividend for a skilled and dynamic future workforce. His call to action was echoed by other speakers who underscored the essential role of youth in addressing social injustice, inequality, and rights advocacy.
Dr. Vibhavendra Raghuvanshi, Chief of Health at UNFPA Bangladesh, highlighted the critical need for sexual and reproductive health education to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 on health and well-being. He emphasised that young people must be supported to access accurate information and services to safeguard their health and future. Similarly, Thijs Woudstra, Deputy Head of Mission at the Netherlands Embassy, underscored the need for youth engagement, especially in healthcare, gender equality, and climate action, urging young people to be active participants rather than mere beneficiaries.
Following the inaugural speeches, the Knowledge Fair offered a series of plenary sessions and interactive discussions focused on SRHR (Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights). Three key sessions addressed pressing issues affecting young people: “Youth’s Call to End Intimidation and Sexual Violence,” “Youth-Friendly Market Systems for Sexual and Reproductive Wellness,” and “Recognising SRHR as Basic Human Rights.” Each session encouraged attendees to speak openly, share their experiences, and propose innovative solutions for these challenges. Youth voices resonated through powerful discussions, and participants actively engaged in envisioning a future where SRHR is accessible to all.
One of the day’s highlights was a keynote presentation by Aftekhar Ahmed Sakib, Vice-President for Sexual Affairs at the Bangladesh Medical Students’ Society (BMSS). His talk outlined the importance of youth-centered policies and the potential of young people to drive the SRHR movement forward. The fair also featured booths from various non-governmental organisations, each showcasing their initiatives and contributions toward SRHR awareness and advocacy, creating an interactive space for learning and networking.
As the event drew to a close, Share-Net Bangladesh celebrated significant contributions to SRHR through the Share-Net Bangladesh SRHR Recognition Awards 2024. This year, the ‘Lifetime Achievement Recognition’ was awarded to Dr. Yasmin Hemayet Ahmed, an independent consultant known for her longstanding dedication to SRHR. Julia Ahmed received the ‘Community Award’ for her work as an independent consultant supporting community-based SRHR initiatives, while the ‘Youth Award’ honored Tajkia Mariam Jahan, Executive Board Member of SERAC Bangladesh, for her dynamic role in advancing youth engagement in SRHR.
Placing youth at the forefront of Bangladesh’s SRHR movement is critical not only for addressing their unique needs but also for fostering a generation that can advocate effectively for their own rights and those of future generations. Empowering youth to take an active role in policy and community initiatives around SRHR issues ensures they have the tools, knowledge, and voice needed to create meaningful and lasting change. With their energy, perspective, and resilience, young people have the potential to reshape societal norms, drive down discrimination, and champion equality and health for all.
Knowledge Fair in Press: