On November 27th, SERAC-Bangladesh hosted a powerful social media live event under the NutriTeens initiative, titled “Empowering Communities: How Nutrition Policy Impacts Adolescent Lives.” The initiative is dedicated to equipping adolescents with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed dietary choices, ensuring a healthier and brighter future for them.
The event featured insightful contributions from distinguished speakers, including Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, Program Manager of National Nutrition Services, Tasnia Ahmed, Program Manager at SERAC-Bangladesh, and Robihul Hasan, an adolescent advocate and volunteer.
Mr. SM Shaikat, Executive Director of SERAC-Bangladesh, delivered a compelling speech, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to involving youth in advocating for better nutritional policies. The session was expertly coordinated and moderated by Katha Mondal Dristi, Program Development Associate at SERAC-Bangladesh. Key Highlights: Mr. SM Shaikat highlighted that while current nutrition policies provide some support for adolescent health, they often lack sufficient awareness about the essential nutrients adolescents need.
Dr. Md. Saiful Islam stressed the importance of proper nutrition for adolescent mothers, noting that it helps promote growth, boost immunity, and reduce pregnancy risks, empowering young mothers to raise healthy children.
Tasnia Ahmed emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between NGOs, the government, and the private sector to address nutrition challenges and promote long-term public health improvements.
Robihul Hasan encouraged prioritizing balanced nutrition, stressing that a proper diet is crucial for overall well-being and goes beyond physical appearance, supporting both physical and mental health.
The discussion focused on key topics such as government-NGO collaboration, the impact of Bangladesh’s nutrition policies, and common nutrition challenges faced by adolescents.
In summary, the NutriTeens Talkshow was a significant platform for raising awareness and empowering youth with knowledge on nutrition. With coordinated efforts and strategic actions, we can work together to ensure a healthier, more resilient future for the next generation in Bangladesh.