Speakers for inclusive and accessible SRH services for marginalised populations

The Population Services and Training Center (PSTC) has presented 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 programme was held at a hotel in the capital on Wednesday, said a press release.

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 Md. Saifullahil Azam, director general of Directorate General of Family Planning.

He put stress on the importance of inclusive and accessible SRH services for marginalised populations.

Special guests included Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, RRRC (Additional Secretary) based in Cox’s Bazar; Nick McLean, first secretary (Humanitarian) of the Australian High Commission in Bangladesh; and Ismail Hossain, former educational secretary of Ministry of Youth & Development, Government of Bangladesh. 

They shared their perspectives on how to overcome systemic challenges and ensure equitable SRH services in the region.

At the beginning of the session, the research team presented key findings of the study. Then a panel discussion was featured by esteemed experts and practitioners. 

The panel consisted of Dr Arpita Das, senior technical adviser of IPPF (SARO); Kazi Amdadul Hoque, senior director of Strategic Planning and Head of Climate Change, Friendship International; Al Mamun, country director of BBC Media Action; and Faisal Shabbir, architect of Cooperation from IPPF. 

The panel placed 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 speech, highlighted the organisation’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 organisation with 46 years of experience in development work across Bangladesh, has consistently championed initiatives that promote health equity and social justice.