Photo:BSS

KHULNA, Jan 8, 2025 (BSS)- A photography exhibition has been launched here
today to mark the celebration of fatherhood, challenging traditional gender
stereotypes and highlighting the evolving role of fathers in families and
communities.

The six-day event titled "Bangladeshi and Swedish Baba" was inaugurated at
Jatisongho Shishu Park, Khulna, this afternoon featuring 50 captivating
photographs of selected Bangladeshi fathers showcasing their role as active
caregivers involved in their children's lives.

The Embassy of Sweden in Bangladesh is hosting the exhibition in
collaboration with United Nation Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations
Population Fund (UNFPA) and UN Women as an effort to challenge traditional
gender stereotypes through highlighting the evolving role of fathers in
families and communities.

Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks, Additional Deputy
Commissioner of Khulna Sadia Afrin and Executive Magistrate of Khulna City
Corporation Jannatul Afroz Swarna attended and addressed the opening
ceremony.

This exhibition primarily aims to promote meaningful dialogue around
parenting practices, gender equality and work-life balance.

It also seeks to inspire different approaches to parenting and gender roles
through showcasing stories that challenge traditional perceptions of
fatherhood and highlight the positive impacts of engaged fathers.

Addressing the opening ceremony, the Swedish envoy said the exhibition
provides a powerful platform for sparking meaningful dialogue about the
evolving role of fathers in both the family and society.

Time has come to challenge traditional gender stereotypes and highlight the
invaluable contributions of fathers as active caregivers through the
exhibition.

"We hope this exhibition will inspire fathers to reflect on their role in
shaping family life, promote a rethinking of modern fatherhood, and encourage
new, more equitable approaches to parenting and gender equality," he added."

Nicolas Weeks also mentioned that the exhibition challenges established
societal norms.

"By showcasing fathers as active caregivers, we aim to inspire more inclusive
parenting practices and deepen discussions on gender equality, a key priority
for the UNDP," he opined.