Dhaka: In a significant advancement for workplace healthcare services, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Olwel BD Ltd, and Nuvista Pharma PLC have collaboratively launched a digital hospital pilot project. This initiative aims to provide continuous primary healthcare and mental health support specifically for garment workers and their families.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara, formalizing the collaboration. This agreement unites the country’s largest apparel sector organization with a leading ICT-based health platform and a prominent pharmaceutical company to enhance workplace health solutions through digital innovation.
The MoU was signed by BGMEA Senior Vice President Inamul Haq Khan, Olwel BD Ltd Chairman Mojahedul Hoque Abul Hasanat, and Nuvista Pharma PLC Managing Director S.M. Robbur Reza, as per a BGMEA press release. Initially, the pilot project will cover 5,000 garment workers with plans to include an additional 5,000 workers after three months. The long-term objective is to extend the digital health services across all factories under BGMEA membership.
Under this initiative, Olwel will operate a comprehensive ICT-enabled health platform offering 24/7 access to digital general practitioner consultations, follow-up services, and secure electronic health record management. Nuvista Pharma will co-finance the project and establish a structured referral network to ensure workers’ access to essential gynecological and reproductive health services.
Science and Technology Secretary and former BGMEA Administrator Md. Anwar Hossain, speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, highlighted that improved worker health directly contributes to higher productivity. BGMEA Senior Vice President Inamul Haq Khan emphasized the association’s commitment to promoting innovative healthcare solutions for worker welfare, particularly noting the benefits of telemedicine services for female workers.
Nuvista Pharma Managing Director S.M. Robbur Reza stated that the collaboration would enhance nutrition and health support for workers, especially women. Olwel Chairman Mojahedul Hoque Abul Hasanat expressed the company’s satisfaction in partnering with BGMEA to provide technology-driven, rapid health services within factory premises.
Senior BGMEA officials, including Vice President Md. Shehab Udduza Chowdhury, Directors Shah Rayeed Chowdhury and Mohammad Abdur Rahim, along with other representatives from the three organizations, attended the ceremony. BGMEA Director Shah Rayeed Chowdhury delivered the welcome address. The initiative builds on BGMEA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen health and welfare services within the garment sector.