On 17 June 2026, RHSTEP Aparajeyo Tarunno (UYP) Khulna Center successfully organized an awareness program titled “Inclusion & Gender Equity-01” to promote gender equality, social inclusion, and youth participation in building a more equitable society.

The program was designed to increase awareness among young people about existing social inequalities, gender-based stereotypes, and the importance of fostering inclusive communities where individuals of all genders are treated with dignity and respect.

The event began with an introduction session facilitated by Project Officer Sujoy Chowdhury Shamyo, allowing participants to become familiar with one another. To encourage active engagement, a fun interactive game was conducted where participants shared their favorite football teams and players, creating a friendly and participatory atmosphere.

As part of the program, students took part in a group-based drawing activity where they were asked to illustrate different professions. The session, facilitated by Youth Officer Noshin Tabassum, revealed a common tendency among participants to associate many professions primarily with men. This observation led to a meaningful discussion on the origins of gender stereotypes and their impact on society.

Project Officer Sujoy Chowdhury Shamyo later delivered a presentation highlighting the objectives and significance of the program. He emphasized the crucial role of young people in creating an inclusive, equal, and discrimination-free society and discussed how collective action can contribute to lasting social change.

Another important segment of the program included the screening of awareness videos focusing on gender-based social taboos and stereotypes. Discussions explored how negative perceptions and discrimination against girls often begin at an early age, the factors that contribute to such attitudes, and practical ways to challenge and overcome them.

Participants also examined how society often assigns specific games, toys, and behavioral expectations to boys and girls, reinforcing traditional gender roles. Through guided discussions and video analysis, attendees reflected on the effects of these stereotypes and explored ways to promote greater equality and inclusion.

The discussion session featured valuable contributions from distinguished guests, including Bikash Chandra Sarkar, Cultural Teacher at Maulana Bhashani Bidyapith; Shirina Akter, Assistant Head Teacher of Shashibhushan Secondary School; and Ayesha Begum, Head Teacher of Khulna Engineering University School.

The guest speakers highlighted both positive and negative societal attitudes toward gender and stressed the importance of youth leadership in challenging discrimination and advancing gender equality. They noted that many discriminatory attitudes originate within families and emphasized that meaningful change must begin at home before extending to society as a whole.

During the open discussion, participants shared their own experiences, perspectives, and observations regarding gender roles and social inclusion. The exchange of ideas created a reflective learning environment and encouraged critical thinking about equality and human rights.

In his closing remarks, Project Officer Sujoy Chowdhury Shamyo called upon participants to actively engage in positive social initiatives and contribute to community development. He emphasized the importance of respecting all genders, promoting empathy, and ensuring equal rights and opportunities for everyone.

The program concluded with the distribution of gifts among participants, marking the successful completion of an engaging and impactful awareness initiative dedicated to gender equity and social inclusion.