Progress Sharing Meeting on the SBC Sylhet Project at the Divisional Level in Sylhet District

The Progress Sharing Meeting on the Social Behavioral Change (SBC) Project at the divisional level, chaired by Ms. Shahina Akter, Deputy Director of the Department of Women Affairs, Sylhet, and with Dr. Manisar Chowdhury, Civil Surgeon of Sylhet, as the Chief Guest, inaugurated the meeting by offering a comprehensive discussion on the project’s progress. In the welcome speech, Mr. Md. Alamgir Mia, SBC-Sylhet Project Coordinator, introduced the audience to the SBC project, highlighting its objectives and scope. Mr. Md. Alamgir Mia presented a detailed overview of the project timeline, budget, working areas, activities, and baseline survey findings. While acknowledging challenges such as political instability and the newness of the SBC concept. Highlights from the Stakeholders: Mr. Md. Layes Miah Talukder, Assistant Engineer of DPHE, said about the importance of proper handwashing techniques and the use of safe water. He remarked, “We need to teach people the value of using safe water and ensure public toilet facilities are used properly.” He also praised about the field contributions of Shushilan. Mr. Abhijeet Bhattacharya, EPI Superintendent, expressed gratitude for attending the meeting and assured his continued support to Shushilan. Mr. Md. Delwar Hossain, Chairman of Sylhet Sadar, highlighted the effectiveness of street dramas in engaging rural audiences. He suggested, “Follow-ups with stakeholders after activities can ensure lasting impacts.” Dr. Jonmojoy Dutta, Deputy Civil Surgeon, proposed to conduct midline surveys. He praised Shushilan’s work on the prevention of child marriage, and advocated for initiatives to support children and adolescents with disabilities through education and care. Mr. Sujan Bonik, Senior Health Education Officer, commended Shushilan’s school programs, describing them as “fantastic” and suggested to engage students in quiz competitions and to promote basic hygiene by distributing soap and sandals which will enhance the programme's effectiveness.” Mr. A.S.M. Abdul Wadud, District Education Officer, appreciated Shushilan’s active involvement in orienting teachers and students on SBC issues. Mr. Baharul Alom Bahar, Chairman of Darbast Union Parishad, Jaintapur, Sylhet, emphasized the importance of birth registration in preventing child marriages. Ms. Masuda Begum, Inspector of Police, highlighted collaborative efforts with Shushilan in fieldwork and legal actions to prevent child marriages. Dr. Sultana Shiraji, Medical Officer of the City Corporation, commended Shushilan’s support for HPV vaccination initiatives and school programmes, noting their proactive efforts to identify and address school dropout gaps. Mr. Md. Abul Monsur Asjad, Upazila Family Planning Officer, Sylhet Sadar, praised Shushilan’s commitment, assuring the availability of his team’s support for the program’s success. Dr. Manisar Chowdhury, Civil Surgeon of Sylhet, emphasized the need for innovative approaches to health awareness and behavioral change, stating, “This project has great potential, but we must overcome challenges like limited staff and time to ensure success.” He also reiterated the need to address challenges and focus on long-term planning, stating, “Identifying challenges and ensuring long-term planning is essential for this project. He also propose to meet again in three months to review further progress.” He thanked all participants and highlighted the significance of collective efforts in achieving the SBC project’s objectives. Finally, he concluded his speech with an emphasis on the importance of follow-ups, collaboration, and sustainable practices. Ms. Shahina Akter, Deputy Director of the Department of Women Affairs, Sylhet and chairperson of this meeting, praised Shushilan’s impactful fieldwork, including the consultation and orientation meeting with key stakeholders, activation of Child Marriage Prevention Committees, sensitize to the stakeholders through effective community engagement and school-level awareness programs.