Families urged to ensure children’s well-being 

Educo Bangladesh unveiled the findings of the Child Rights and Wellbeing Situation Analysis Report-2024 on Wednesday (December 18) at a high-profile event held at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Banani, Dhaka.

Distinguished guests, policymakers, experts, and youth advocates attended the function to reflect on the state of child rights and well-being in Bangladesh. 

Mamtaz Ahmed, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, was present as the chief guest and Md. Anwar Hossain, Director General (In-charge) of the NGO Affairs Bureau under the Chief Advisor's Office, was the special guest.

The event began with a welcome speech by Abdur Rahim, Director of Programs at Educo Bangladesh, who emphasized Educo’s commitment to advancing child rights and creating a safer, more equitable world for all children in Bangladesh. 

The report findings were presented by Mohammad Adnan Rahman, Portfolio Manager of Inspira Advisory and Consulting Limited, highlighting critical issues faced by children in areas such as education, protection, and well-being. The analysis showcased both challenges and opportunities, urging a multi-sectoral approach to ensure children's holistic development. 

The study shows, 3 in 6 children did not participate in extracurricular activities. 

Only 3% of teachers in primary schools received specialized training in pre-primary education.

 Also, according to data from the Women with Disabilities and Development Foundation, 96 % of women and girls with disabilities face physical, psychological, sexual, and emotional violence. 

During the unveiling of the report, the need for systemic reforms and robust collaborations among government bodies, NGOs, and communities was emphasized. 

In her speech, Mamtaz Ahmed stated, “This report sheds light on the pressing issues that continue to affect children’s lives. It serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to ensure every child in Bangladesh grows up safe, healthy, and empowered.” 

Arzu Ara Begum, joint secretary MOWCA, thanks to Educo and Inspira for the initiative and finding such critical and important issues.

Md. Anwar Hossain appreciated the initiative, he also added, “Children’s safety should be addressed from families, as children are vulnerable even in the families”.