The "Youth in Equality" project, jointly implemented by Jago Foundation Trust and Plan International Bangladesh with funding from the Netherlands Embassy, has been launched in Bishwanath, Sylhet. The initiative aims to empower youth, eliminate gender discrimination, and establish women's rights across eight divisions of Bangladesh.
As part of the project, the Sylhet Freedom Youth Club – a youth-led organization trained under the project – organized a community action program titled "Breaking Myths and Misconceptions about Menstrual Health and Hygiene" recently. The event was held at the residence of late Haji Hushiyar Ali Talukdar and Demashad High School in Madaruka, Bishwanath.
The program featured special training sessions and courtyard meetings focused on preventing gender stereotypes and violence against women. Twenty-four female students from grades 5 to 8 participated in discussions addressing common misconceptions, superstitions, and social barriers related to menstrual health and hygiene.
The event was chaired by Mohammad Imtiaz Kamran Talukdar, President of Sylhet Freedom Youth Club and a local entrepreneur. Distinguished guests included His Excellency Jan Suylian, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh; First Secretary Mashfika Zaman Sattar; Senior Policy Advisor for Gender and Civil Society, Mr. Bird Ezing; and Financial Advisor from the Netherlands Embassy, along with representatives from the "Youth in Equality" project.
Special guests included Bishwanath Upazila Executive Officer Sunanda Roy, Upazila Secondary Academic Supervisor Abdul Hamid, and officials from health, family planning, police, youth development, and social services departments. Local dignitaries, journalists, and community members were also present.
The project focuses on building youth capacity, promoting media literacy, enhancing online safety, and fostering strategic partnerships with educational institutions to create positive social change and build a society based on equal rights.
