Empowering youth for a healthier future

The 10th National Youth Family Planning Conference of Bangladesh (BNYCFP) was successfully held on 11 December 2025, bringing together over 500 youth representatives, policymakers, health experts, and stakeholders from across the country, says a press release. The primary objectives of the conference were to strengthen family planning initiatives, accelerate adolescent health development, ensure gender equality, and integrate climate action into health and development policies.

The theme of this year's conference was "Advocate, Accelerate, Amplify – Together we transform the future." The event was inaugurated by S M Shaikat, Executive Director of SERAC-Bangladesh and Secretary General of the conference, in the presence of representatives from national and international development organisations, as well as adolescents and youth, accompanied by the national anthem and cultural performances.

The Chief Guest at the opening ceremony was Dr Ashrafi Ahmad, NDC, Director General (Grade-1), Directorate General of Family Planning, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

In his welcome address, S M Shaikat emphasised that youth are the centrepiece and driving force of the global development agenda. Their active participation and leadership form the foundation of an integrated, rights-based health system.

Dr Ashrafi Ahmad, NDC, highlighted that sexual and reproductive health, family planning, climate change, and youth engagement are deeply linked to the country's sustainable development. With one-third of the population being youth, effectively engaging and empowering them will accelerate national development.

During sessions, discussions focused on adolescent and youth health services and access to reproductive health, nutrition, prevention of child marriage, youth leadership, and evidence-based policy formulation. Experts emphasised health awareness, data-driven decision-making, and integrated service delivery.

The conference was supported by Sida, BYHAN, CYOB, Marie Stopes Bangladesh, Plan International, Share-Net Bangladesh, SMC, UNFPA, and other national and international partners. Through active youth participation and leadership, the event established itself as a strong platform for advancing inclusive, effective, and sustainable health and family planning initiatives in the country.

The closing ceremony featured Md Saidur Rahman Khan, Director General of the Department of Social Services, as Chief Guest. Md Saidur Rahman Khan stressed the need to create "corridors" for youth participation in decision-making across all sectors, noting that active youth involvement in social initiatives contributes significantly to national development.