On 29 October 2025, Aparajeyo Tarunno (UYP Project), Rangpur Centre, organized a “Health Advocacy Campaign” at Ershadnagar (Chiniyapara) community in Rangpur. The programme aimed to enhance awareness on health, nutrition, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and mental wellbeing among marginalized communities.

The event was facilitated by Youth Officer Ms. Swarnali Acharya and chaired by Project Officer Mr. Animesh Roy. The programme began with a discussion session where speakers highlighted the importance and objectives of the campaign.

Dr. Anisur Rahman, Medical Officer at Islami Bank Community Hospital, Rangpur, emphasized that the initiative aims to raise awareness among underserved populations regarding health, nutrition, SRHR, and mental health. He noted that overcoming social taboos around SRHR is essential to prevent avoidable diseases and improve overall public health outcomes. Speakers encouraged participants to become more aware of their health rights and take proactive steps toward ensuring personal and family wellbeing.

The discussion also addressed the social stigma surrounding sexual and reproductive health in Bangladesh, stressing the need for open dialogue and community-level awareness to reduce preventable health risks and socio-economic challenges.

Following the discussion, participants received free health services, including medical consultations, blood group testing, blood pressure measurement, and counselling. A health awareness display titled “10 Things to Remember” was also presented to provide key health messages.

Medical consultations were provided by Dr. Anisur Rahman, while blood group and blood pressure tests were conducted by Mr. Shah Md. Kabiul Hossain, Lab Technician, RHSTEP Rangpur Medical College and Hospital. Counselling on mental health and SRHR was delivered by Ms. Rafia Khandakar, Counsellor, RHSTEP Rangpur Medical College and Hospital.

The event was also attended by Mr. Gazi Azam Hossain, BErOBi correspondent of Manabzamin, Rangpur, and Mr. Toufiq Ahmed, Accounts and Admin Officer, RHSTEP Rangpur Medical College and Hospital.

At the end of the campaign, sanitary napkins were distributed among participants as part of the initiative to promote menstrual health awareness. The programme concluded successfully with active participation and strong community engagement.