Dhaka: Health Secretary Mohammad Saidur Rahman today called upon all to ensure involvement of non-government organizations (NGOs) in the health sector more visible in strengthening health care services. “It is not possible for the government alone to fulfill the responsibility of providing healthcare service to 20 crore people in the country. For this, NGOs must play a more responsible role,” he said this at a view-exchange meeting at NGO Affairs Bureau head office at Agargaon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the secretary emphasized the importance of NGOs working sincerely to raise people’s health awareness, driven by both financial and humanitarian motives. He acknowledged the significant progress in the health sector since the interim government assumed responsibility. Highlighting a large rally in Dhaka with all civil surgeons, Rahman noted they were instructed to cooperate with NGOs in the health sector.
Rahman further stressed that the NGOs’ efforts in the health sector should be visible and that they should keep the Ministry of Health informed about their progress. Professor Dr. Md Abu Zafar, Director General of the Directorate General of Health, cited a 2022 survey indicating that 42 percent of diseases could be prevented with proper diet, urging NGO workers to focus on increasing health awareness.
Dr. Zafar announced a massive vaccination campaign targeting 4.93 crore children against typhoid on October 12, urging NGOs to prioritize this initiative over other activities. He highlighted the importance of cooperation in achieving the vaccination goals.
The Director General of the NGO Affairs Bureau underscored the support provided by the current government to NGOs for their health sector activities, urging them to reciprocate by fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. Over 40 NGO officials attended the event, indicating a strong interest and commitment to enhancing NGO visibility and cooperation in the health sector.