VAALO avant-garde Ltd. delivered the keynote presentation at the National Dissemination Workshop on the SRHR and Menstrual Hygiene Promotion Study, held on October 16, 2025, at the Directorate General of Family Planning (DGFP), Dhaka. Organized by RHSTEP under the RHRN2 program, the workshop showcased the outcomes of the SRHR and Menstrual Hygiene Promotion Study improving adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRHR) and menstrual hygiene management (MHM) across Bangladesh conducted by VAALO.
The event brought together 25 key participants, including Dr. Ashrafi Ahmed, NDC, Director General of DGFP, as Chief Guest, along with senior officials from the MCH-Services Unit. Representatives from seven coalition partners—BRAC, Naripokkho, Nagorik Uddog, Wreetu, Oboyob and Well-being Foundation, and Youth Policy Forum (YPF)—also joined the discussion.
VAALO conducted the comprehensive program assessment, engaging 412 participants across Savar, Narail, Gaibandha, and Sylhet. Dr. Nazneen Akhter, Managing Director of VAALO, presented key findings highlighting improved SRHR knowledge, positive attitude shifts, and strengthened gender inclusion among adolescents.
Findings revealed nearly universal awareness of menstruation among school (99%) and community beneficiaries (100%), compared to only 33% among non-beneficiaries. HIV/AIDS awareness reached 86% among community participants and 51% among school beneficiaries, while 97% of community members reported awareness of sexual harassment issues. The study also recorded a sharp reduction in menstrual taboos and increased recognition of menstrual products as a basic right.
Dr. Akhter’s presentation emphasized the success of both the Whole School and Community Approaches. These included teacher-led SRHR and MHM sessions, formation of health clubs, community dialogues, and youth-friendly spaces for open discussion.
Participants recommended institutionalizing bi-weekly comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) sessions, expanding outreach to parents and faith leaders, improving school hygiene facilities, and integrating SRHR and MHM education into the national curriculum.
The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to sustain and scale up these efforts through government–NGO partnerships and youth-led advocacy. VAALO’s contribution reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality, adolescent empowerment, and public health outcomes across Bangladesh.
