On 15 June 2026 (Monday) at 10:30 AM, RHSTEP under its SRHR initiative Aparajeyo Tarunno (UYP) Project organized an awareness and participatory program titled “Inclusion and Gender Equity” at the Rangpur Branch Office.

The main objective of the program was to raise awareness on ensuring equal rights, equal opportunities, dignity, and participation in decision-making processes for all individuals in society, including women, men, adolescents, transgender persons, third-gender communities, and persons with disabilities. The event also highlighted the importance of youth engagement in building a non-discriminatory and gender-equitable society.

The session was presided over by Project Officer Animesh Roy, while the welcome address was delivered by Youth Officer Swarnali Acharya, who emphasized the importance of practicing gender equality, mutual respect, and social inclusion among young people.

The chief guest and keynote speaker was Kuntala Chowdhury, Head of the Department of Gender and Development Studies, Begum Rokeya University. She discussed the social impacts of gender discrimination, the importance of inclusive development, and the responsibility of youth in creating a just and humane society. She stressed that every individual’s opinions, experiences, and participation must be equally valued for building a fair society.

A media representative, Abul Khayer Zayed from Daily Kaler Kantho (Begum Rokeya University correspondent), was also present at the event.

To enhance interaction among participants, an engaging ice-breaking session was conducted by Mentors Ruman Sheikh and Anika Taskeen, introducing the objectives and activities of the UYP project and encouraging active participation.

Students and youth from various schools, colleges, universities, and communities actively participated in the program, sharing their experiences and engaging in discussions on gender equality, social inclusion, and human rights.

A key highlight of the program was an awareness drama depicting the story of a 16-year-old girl named Mala, who becomes a victim of child marriage despite her wish to continue her education. The drama illustrated how community members, including an educated youth named Kabir and teacher Hasina Begum, raised awareness about the harmful effects of child marriage. Their efforts ultimately helped the community understand the importance of protecting girls’ rights and ensuring equal decision-making power.

Speakers expressed hope that such initiatives would strengthen youth awareness on human rights, gender equality, and social inclusion, playing a vital role in building a more equitable and discrimination-free society.

The program concluded with a call from Aparajeyo Tarunno for all participants to take active roles in promoting an inclusive, equitable, and humane society from their respective positions.