UK a committed development partner of Bangladesh: DFID

Department for International Development (DFID) Country Representative Judith Herbertson on Thursday said the United Kingdom is supporting the government of Bangladesh in improving the availability and quality of health services as a committed development partner of Bangladesh.

The DFID head in Bangladesh made the remarks at a launching ceremony of a programme titled “Essential Healthcare for the Disadvantaged in Bangladesh” held in the city with the help of Concern Worldwide along with its consortium partners.

The goal of the new health programme is to improve health, family planning and nutrition status of the disadvantaged and people with disability bringing them under the essential healthcare services of the targeted locations of six districts of Khulna and Barishal division by using different digital technology and innovative strategy.

The DFID head in Bangladesh said the programme will test different approaches with local health authorities and users of the health services.

“It’ll also tackle the negative effect of climate change and environmental degradation on the health of the disadvantaged people in the coastal belt, including those living with disabilities,” Herbertson said.

Secretary to Health Services Division Md Ashadul Islam attended the function as the chief guest while joint chief of planning at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Dr AE Md Mohiuddin Osmani, Director (Planning & Research) of DGHS Dr Md Iqbal Kabir were, among others, present.

Ashadul Islam said combined efforts are required from both government and non-government organisations to get over healthcare crisis for the disadvantaged population of coastal areas.

He said everyone’s participation is needed to improve the quality of healthcare in the coastal region.

This 3.5 years programme will be implemented in remotes 15 upazilas along with municipalities of Khulna and Barishal districts.