Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, Sept 9, 2026 (BSS) - Experts have called for building effective coordination among institutions related to education, health and social welfare to ensure healthy and holistic development of children.
 
They said that although there has been progress in early childhood development, the desired goals are being hampered due to a lack of institutional coordination.
 
The speakers made the remarks at a regional advocacy and exchange workshop titled 'Catalyzing Whole Child Development in Bangladesh: The Way Forward' held at a hotel in Rajshahi today.

The workshop was jointly organized by the BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD), Bangladesh ECD Network and the Institute of Education and Research of Rajshahi University.
 
In his speech as the chief guest, Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate of Rajshahi Kazi Shahidul Islam said that families, society and the state must ensure a supportive environment for the natural and human development of children.

Parents also need to be aware of giving necessary time and care to children.
 
Special guest Additional Deputy Commissioner Tuktuk Talukder said that along with institutional initiatives, family awareness is essential for the proper development of children.
 
Speakers at the workshop said that early childhood development is intricately linked with health, nutrition, education, protection and social and emotional development.

If proper care is ensured in the first few years of life, a child's future learning ability and mental resilience increases.
 
The discussion covered various issues including positive parenting, inclusive education, use of mother tongue at the pre-primary level, the role of community centres and prevention of child marriage.
 
Officials of the Directorate of Primary Education, District Children Affairs Officer, teachers, educationists, local administration officials and development partners participated in the day-long workshop.