Dhaka, Feb 25 (V7N) – The Connection Project, a multinational initiative led by the Department of Family Planning in collaboration with Save the Children and George Washington University, has successfully completed research activities in Noakhali and Madaripur districts. The project, focused on healthcare and guidance for first-time parents, shared its findings at an event held at Hotel Sheraton on Monday morning.

Research and Findings

The project conducted extensive research across eight upazilas in Noakhali and Madaripur. The findings and experiences were presented in two informative sessions by:

  • Dr. Abu Sayeed Mohammad Abdullah, Deputy Director, RCH, CIPRB
  • Bidhan Krishna Sarkar, Associate Scientist, ICTDR,B

Following the presentations, an open discussion on the overall impact of the project was conducted by:

  • Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam Talukder, Line Director, Clinical Contraception Services Delivery Program, Department of Family Planning

Key Participants and Discussions

Prominent officials from government and partner organizations attended the event, including:

  • Dr. S. M. Abdullah Al Murad, Line Director, MNC & AH, Department of Health
  • Md. Taslim Uddin Khan, Director, IEM, Department of Family Planning
  • Sabina Parveen, Director and Line Director, Planning Unit, Department of Family Planning
  • Md. Enamul Haque, Director, Finance Division, Department of Family Planning
  • Mir Sajedur Rahman, Administration Division, Department of Family Planning
  • Dr. Md. Sultan Ahmed, Director, MCH Services, Department of Family Planning
  • Rifat Bin Sattar, Director, Program Development and Quality, Save the Children in Bangladesh

Significance of the Connection Project

Rifat Bin Sattar, Director of Save the Children in Bangladesh, highlighted that the Connection Project builds on the success of the Mamani Project and hopes to apply its findings in other project areas.

Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam Talukder, Line Director of CCSDP, emphasized that although the project will end in April 2025, its findings will influence maternal healthcare and family planning policies at the district and upazila levels, even within the government’s limited workforce.

Government's Perspective

Mohammad Noor Alam Siddiqui, Director General of the Department of Family Planning, attended as the chief guest. He stated:

"An important aspect of the Connection Project is its focus on postnatal care and family planning for first-time parents. The research findings will play a crucial role in shaping future government policies."

Impact on National Healthcare Goals

Speakers at the event expressed hope that the project’s insights will contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by enhancing healthcare for young first-time parents in Bangladesh.

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