Despite overall improvements in Bangladesh’s health sector, marginalized communities such as urban slum dwellers, Dalit (Harijan) populations, and young persons with disabilities continue to face significant inequalities in accessing essential healthcare services. Ensuring their active participation is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

With this objective, the “Aporajeyo Tarunno (UYP)” initiative under RHSTEP organized a specialized workshop for members of the Youth Health Council on 21 June 2026 (Sunday). The session aimed to strengthen youth-led health governance and promote social accountability in the healthcare system.

The primary focus of the workshop was to identify structural barriers and healthcare access challenges faced by youth from Karail Basti, Mironjilla Harijan community, and persons with disabilities. The session also emphasized strengthening youth leadership, advocacy skills, and monitoring capacity in the health sector to ensure equitable service delivery.

A key highlight of the workshop was the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an innovative tool for developing youth-led solutions in the health sector. Participants explored how AI technology can be utilized to identify, analyze, and address sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) challenges through creative and data-driven approaches.

The workshop brought together approximately 20 selected representatives from marginalized communities, along with invited guests, in a participatory and inclusive environment that emphasized gender equality and community-based engagement.

The session was facilitated and moderated by Ahadul Siraj, Zubaida Anjum Saba, and Sayma Akter. During the hands-on segment, participants actively used AI tools to develop and present SRHR-related content, demonstrating practical applications of technology in health communication and advocacy.

This initiative reflects RHSTEP’s continued commitment to inclusive health governance, youth empowerment, and innovation-driven advocacy for marginalized communities in Bangladesh.