A pivotal technical workshop titled “Updating Health National Adaptation Plan with Roadmap and Costing for Implementation” took place on June 12, 2024, at the Six Seasons Hotel in Gulshan 2, Dhaka. Organized by the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control, and Research (IEDCR) with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and VAALO avant-garde Ltd., the workshop focused on revising Bangladesh's Health National Adaptation Plan (H-NAP) 2018 by developing a detailed implementation roadmap and conducting a cost-benefit analysis.
The event convened a diverse group of experts and stakeholders, including representatives from various NGOs, to review and provide comprehensive feedback on the H-NAP-2018 document. Discussions centered on the profound impacts of climate change on public health in Bangladesh, highlighting direct and indirect effects such as the rise in vector-borne diseases, under-nutrition, and mental health challenges.
Participants were divided into three groups to review different sections of the H-NAP-2018 and familiarize themselves with the WHO's operational framework for building climate-resilient health systems. Each group analyzed specific chapters and provided valuable insights and suggestions, which were then discussed in a plenary session. The workshop concluded with presentations from each group, followed by discussions and the formulation of actionable recommendations for the updated H-NAP-2024.
Detailed discussions on financial strategies for implementing the updated plan underscored the workshop's sessions, emphasizing the importance of securing government endorsement for broader impact and ensuring sustained collaborative efforts. Closing remarks highlighted the critical need for a robust, climate-resilient health system to protect Bangladesh's population amidst escalating climate challenges.
This workshop represents a significant advancement in addressing the health impacts of climate change in Bangladesh, emphasizing the necessity of collective action and strategic planning in constructing a resilient health system.
