Berlin:Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hussain has announced the government's commitment to gradually increasing the health sector allocation to five percent of GDP and recruiting 25,000 midwives into the public healthcare system within the next few years.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister highlighted the crucial role midwives play in providing safe, dignified, and life-saving healthcare for mothers and newborns. Their services are essential for improving antenatal care, safe delivery, emergency medical referrals, and postnatal care.
Sakhawat made these remarks during a minister-level roundtable in Berlin, Germany, focused on "Accelerating Midwifery and South-South Partnerships for Health Security From Crisis to Resilience." The minister emphasized that Bangladesh views investment in midwives as a national priority to reduce maternal and newborn deaths and lower healthcare costs.
He also mentioned that infrastructure at 62 educational institutions is being modernized to enhance midwifery education, including the introduction of hands-on training, simulation-based education, and technology-driven learning systems. Regional cooperation with countries like Nepal and Pakistan is also being strengthened through knowledge exchange, faculty exchange, and joint training programs.
Sakhawat acknowledged the contributions of development partners, particularly the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in expanding maternal and reproductive healthcare services. He noted the significant role of midwives during climate-related disasters and humanitarian assistance operations for the Rohingyas in Cox's Bazar, where they ensure the continuity of maternal healthcare services even during crises.
The government remains committed to investing in midwives to protect women, children, and the nation's future economy.