DHAKA, Dec 11, 2025 (BSS) - In a major step towards strengthening workplace healthcare services, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Olwel BD Ltd and Nuvista Pharma PLC have jointly launched a digital hospital pilot project aimed at providing round-the-clock primary healthcare and mental health support for garment workers and their families.

A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising the collaboration was signed yesterday at the BGMEA Complex in Uttara.

The agreement brings together the country’s largest apparel sector organisation, a leading ICT-based health platform, and a prominent pharmaceutical company to expand workplace health solutions using digital innovation.

The MoU was signed by BGMEA Senior Vice President Inamul Haq Khan, Olwel BD Ltd Chairman Mojahedul Hoque Abul Hasanat, and Nuvista Pharma PLC Managing Director S.M. Robbur Reza, said a BGMEA press release.

Officials said the pilot project will initially cover 5,000 garment workers, with plans to include an additional 5,000 workers after three months. The long-term goal is to extend the digital health services across all factories under BGMEA membership.

Under the initiative, Olwel will operate a comprehensive ICT-enabled health platform offering 24/7 access to digital general practitioner consultations, follow-up services, and secure electronic health record management. Nuvista Pharma will co-finance the project and establish a structured referral network to ensure workers’ access to essential gynaecological and reproductive health services.

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Science and Technology Secretary and former BGMEA Administrator Md. Anwar Hossain lauded the initiative, noting that improved worker health directly contributes to higher productivity. “Other sectors should follow this example,” he said.

BGMEA Senior Vice President Inamul Haq Khan said the association is committed to promoting innovative healthcare solutions for worker welfare. “If we can ensure digital healthcare inside factories, it will be transformative. Our female workers will especially benefit from telemedicine services that allow them to seek advice on personal health issues,” he added.

Nuvista Pharma Managing Director S.M. Robbur Reza noted that the collaboration would strengthen nutrition and health support for workers, particularly women. Olwel Chairman Mojahedul Hoque Abul Hasanat said the company was pleased to partner with BGMEA to provide technology-driven, rapid health services within factory premises.

Senior BGMEA officials, including Vice President Md. Shehab Udduza Chowdhury, Directors Shah Rayeed Chowdhury and Mohammad Abdur Rahim, and other representatives from the three organisations attended the ceremony. BGMEA Director Shah Rayeed Chowdhury delivered the welcome address.

The initiative builds on BGMEA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen health and welfare services within the garment sector.