Rangpur: With increased public awareness, the incidence of social curses such as child marriage, dowry, polygamy, torture, and violence against women has significantly reduced in rural areas of the northern region. Experts and officials say that awareness-raising activities conducted by government and non-government organizations, volunteers, women, and students are contributing to the reduction of social evils, brightening the prospects of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) on time.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Assistant Director of the Rangpur District Information Office Md Alamgir Kabir stated that the government, through various departments and organizations, as well as mediums like Television and Betar, is conducting massive awareness campaigns. These efforts are enabling rural populations to access crucial information on issues such as child marriage, dowry, polygamy, violence against women, and other related social concerns.
District Information Offices are actively engaging rural community leaders, public representatives, religious leaders, women, adolescents, and youth in extensive awareness-raising activities focused on gender-related issues and social stigma. This collaborative approach is reportedly leading to a noticeable decrease in social stigma and contributing to the development of a more peaceful society.
Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Rabiul Faisal highlighted the impact of awareness-raising activities in educational institutions. He noted that these initiatives, alongside preventive measures, have empowered schoolgirls and local administrations to effectively combat child marriage.
Divisional Director (Health) Dr Mohammad Gousul Azim Chowdhury emphasized the effectiveness of health and family planning departments’ awareness programs in rural areas. These programs are educating communities on family planning, health, nutrition, and other critical issues, resulting in increased awareness and action against social problems.
Women activist Dr Nasima Akter, President of the Rangpur District Corruption Prevention Committee, observed that rural women are increasingly valuing education for their daughters and opting for marriage registration at a more mature age.
Arifuzzaman Moon, an entrepreneur at Saddyapuskorini UDC, reported that many rural youths and women are seeking knowledge on social issues at UDCs. Furthermore, they are applying this knowledge to improve nutrition by cultivating vegetables and fruits at home.
Dr Syed Samsuzzaman, Chairman of the Northbengal Institute of Development Studies, remarked that UDCs are instrumental in building a prosperous Bangladesh by reducing social problems. He praised the role of UDCs and public campaigns in preventing child marriage and promoting dowry-free marriages.
Overall, past challenges such as high rates of child marriage, dowry, and maternal mortality are showing signs of decline. Through continued motivational activities and community services, the region is making significant strides towards achieving the SDGs.