DHAKA, May 27, 2025 (BSS) - The Bangladesh National Commission for UNESCO (BNCU) and UNESCO Dhaka successfully organized a workshop titled "Youth Engagement in UNESCO: Priorities and Opportunities" today in the International Conference Room of International Mother Language institute. 

The event brought together youth organizations, university students, young professionals, and educators to explore UNESCO's youth-centric initiatives, policies, and global networks, said a press release here. 

Dr. Susan Vize, Head of Office and Country Representative to UNESCO Dhaka was the key speaker, while Nuzhat Yasmin, Additional Secretary (Admin & Finance), SHED, MOE, was the chief guest of the programme. 

In the workshop, the speakers highlighted UNESCO's commitment to youth empowerment and its engagement in Bangladesh's educational, scientific, and cultural development. 

The first session covered the following key areas: Student health and well- being (HPS and SEW), Digital Empowerment and Media Literacy Cultural Diversity and Heritage, Youth Civic Engagement and Voice, Science, Technology, and Innovation (could cover YAR), Internships, Youth Forums, and Volunteer Opportunities, UNESCO's global youth networks: WH, MAB, YOUCAN, Global Youth Hub. 

The discussions emphasized youth engagement in governance, research opportunities, digital empowerment, and policy-level contributions with the opportunities for global networking. 

Special attention was given to the Youth as Researchers (YAR) Program, tackling key areas like mental health during crises, indigenous youth and climate change, and intercultural action for sustainable development etc. 

The workshop also delved into youth career development, internship and volunteer opportunities with some news ideas from the emerging and enthusiastic youths. 

The first session was followed by the experience-sharing segment featured insights from youth leaders Rokaiya Ahmed Purna, founder of Design in Bangladesh, and Sadia Jafrin, CEO of Grow Your Reader Foundation. They presented inspiring stories on their engagement in global platform. 

The event concluded with a question-answer session and group discussions.