The RMNCAH (Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal, Child, and Adolescent Health) programme in coastal Bangladesh strongly prioritizes integrating madrasas into sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) interventions. With approximately 3.5 million students enrolled in madrasas, many of whom are in classes six to ten, these institutions serve as a critical platform for reaching adolescents, especially in rural areas where access to comprehensive health education is lacking.
Central to
the initiative is its cultural sensitivity, achieved through close
collaboration between Concern Worldwide and madrasa leaders to incorporate
Adolescent Health Sessions that respect and align with local norms and values.
By providing accurate, age-appropriate SRHR education, the program aims to
bridge information gaps and empower adolescents to make informed decisions
about their health and well-being. This includes addressing issues such as
early marriage, where the program seeks to effect tangible change by educating
young people about their rights and health.
A vital
aspect of the initiative is the training and capacity-sharing of madrasa and
school teachers together, as well as local healthcare providers. By enhancing
their skills in delivering SRHR education and services, RMNCAH ensures that
adolescents receive consistent, reliable support from trusted community
figures. Additionally, the initiative works to improve access to essential adolescent
healthcare services at local centers, such as Community Clinics and Union
Health and Family Welfare Centers, further enhancing adolescents' overall
health outcomes.
The
integration of madrasas into the RMNCAH initiative has already yielded promising
results, with increased SRHR awareness among adolescents. By fostering an
inclusive and culturally sensitive framework for health education, Concern
Worldwide Bangladesh, along with its partners and with the support of the
government, is laying the groundwork for healthier and more resilient
communities. This ongoing initiative underscores the importance of a
multifaceted approach to adolescent health, blending cultural respect with
essential education and services to drive enduring change in Bangladesh.
The
following photos are taken from a madrasa, depict a woman teacher conducting an
adolescent health session. This visit, among others, was part of the
activities. Mr. AKM NurunNabi Kabir, Managing Director (Additional Secretary)
of CCHST, MOHFW, along with Deputy Secretary Mr. Rafiqul Islam and Assistant
Secretary Mr. Bimal Das, were part of the visiting team in Barguna.