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Capacity Building Trainings Held in Bhola to Promote Social and Behaviour Change Capacity Building Trainings Held in Bhola to Promote Social and Behaviour Change

Posted on: June 19, 2025, 12:43 pm



Shushilan, with support from UNICEF, organized two impactful training sessions on Social and Behavior Change (SBC), Community Engagement, Key Behaviors and Interpersonal Communication in Bhola distric... Shushilan, with support from UNICEF, organized two impactful training sessions on Social and Behavior Change (SBC), Community Engagement, Key Behaviors and Interpersonal Communication in Bhola district. The trainings took place on 15 May 2025 in Daulatkhan and 20 May 2025 in Borhanuddin. A total of 52 participants including government officials, NGO representatives, religious leaders, matchmakers, and law enforcement joined the sessions to enhance their understanding of behavior-focused communication and ethical community engagement. The sessions began with welcome remarks and a self-introduction session facilitated by Rekha Yesmin, the Project Coordinator of the SBC Programme. The Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Daulatkhan, Ms. Niyoti Rani Kauri, and the UNO of Borhanuddin, Md. Rayhanuzzaman, inaugurated the sessions in their respective upazilas with encouraging speeches, calling for integrated efforts to address behavioral issues in society. The first technical session in both upazilas was conducted by Md. Sajib Rahman, Training and Monitoring Officer, who presented a comprehensive situational analysis based on third-party baseline findings. He used informative charts and diagrams to highlight existing behavioral challenges across Bhola district, particularly in relation to child marriage, maternal health, communication gaps, and institutional cooperation. Following the presentation, Rekha Yesmin led an interactive discussion on the framework of community engagement and the application of minimum quality standards and indicators. She emphasized stakeholder roles and introduced participatory strategies to ensure sustainable behavioral impact. A dedicated session on Interpersonal Communication (IPC) was facilitated by Md. Sajib Rahman, where participants engaged in practical exercises and explored types of IPC, key techniques, and structured steps for effective dialogue with community members. He highlighted that IPC, when applied effectively, plays a vital role in changing deep-rooted social norms and perceptions. In the final technical session, Rekha Yesmin addressed the ethical considerations of behavior change programme. Through case studies and group-based exercises, participants learned how to apply ethical practices in real-world scenarios, especially when dealing with sensitive issues such as early marriage, adolescent health, and harmful gender norms. In Borhanuddin, the Family Planning Officer expressed concern over the deteriorating state of personal and social values, suggesting accountability mechanisms for elected representatives if found complicit in child marriage incidents. UNO of Borhanuddin, Md. Rayhanuzzaman, remarked, “When irregularity becomes the norm, culture begins to decay. Grooming at the family level is essential for lasting change.” In Daulatkhan, UNO Niyoti Rani Kauri reflected, “This training brought together various sectors. From today, Shushilan also shares the responsibility for social change. We will provide full administrative support to sustain these efforts.” She emphasized self-awareness as a root of collective transformation. OC Md. Zillur Rahman of Daulatkhan Police Station applauded Shushilan and UNICEF’s initiatives and proposed integrating SBC messages into community policing programs. Teachers, Journalists and officials from Family Planning, NGOs, and Youth Development echoed the call for inter-sectoral collaboration and community-based awareness to ensure long-term impact. The events concluded with strong commitments from all stakeholders to support Shushilan’s mission to foster positive social transformation in Bhola. Read More

Formation and Activation of Networking Committees across 7 Upazilas of Bhola by Shushilan’s SBC Pr... Formation and Activation of Networking Committees across 7 Upazilas of Bhola by Shushilan’s SBC Project Read More

Posted on: June 15, 2025, 3:22 pm



Introduction: According to UNICEF’s MICS 2022, Bhola district has a high child marriage rate (55.6%) and low maternal and neonatal healthcare uptake only 17.7% of women receive four or more ANC vis... Introduction: According to UNICEF’s MICS 2022, Bhola district has a high child marriage rate (55.6%) and low maternal and neonatal healthcare uptake only 17.7% of women receive four or more ANC visits, and just 49.2% of newborns get PNC services. As a riverine island, Bhola also faces elevated child drowning risks, flagged by UNICEF as a key concern. In response to these challenges, Shushilan has launched its Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Project with support from UNICEF. One of the key interventions under this project has been the reactivation and strengthening of previously inactive community-level committees across Bhola's seven upazilas. These now-operational Networking Committees aim to build a coordinated social movement around preventing child marriage and promoting child and maternal health. What is a Networking Committee and Why is it Important? A Networking Committee is a community-based social pressure group that works closely with local administration and stakeholders to combat child marriage, forced marriage, and child abuse, while improving access to health services including ANC and PNC. The committees comprise representatives from diverse sectors, including schoolteachers, religious leaders (imams), elected local representatives, health workers, adolescent boys and girls, NGO activists, and media personnel. These members collaborate with relevant union and upazila-level government committees to foster coordinated advocacy and action. “We often encounter incidents of child abuse or child marriage in our community, but the information rarely reaches the right authority. This committee has now given us a common platform to raise our voice and take collective action,” said Abdus Samad, Head Teacher and member of the Networking Committee. Praising the activation initiative, he added: “Thanks to Shushilan’s intervention, we are now reconnected and energized. After a long time, we have an active structure through which awareness and change can be promoted. This is a very positive development for our area.” Committee Structure and Approval: Under the SBC project, Shushilan has facilitated the formation of a 7-member Executive Networking Committee in each of the 7 upazilas of Bhola. Each committee has been formally approved by the respective Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) and is guided by a clear operational framework. Shushilan SBC team will monitor the committees’ activities, submitting regular reports to the UNO office to ensure transparency and accountability. Executive Committee Composition: • President – 1 • Vice President – 1 • General Secretary – 1 • Joint Secretary – 1 • Executive Members – 3 (All positions are filled through participatory election among general committee members.) "Community-level engagement is key to tackling deep-rooted issues like child marriage and maternal health gaps," said one UNO, during the committee endorsement ceremony. “By formally approving and supporting these networking committees, we are creating a localized system of social accountability and empowerment. I commend Shushilan for this initiative.” Core Objectives of the Networking Committee: • Prevent child marriage and violence against children • Ensure access to essential maternal and child healthcare (ANC/PNC, immunization) • Promote and replicate good practices at grassroots level • Strengthen linkages with local government for sustained advocacy Key Responsibilities of Members: • Identify undeserved areas lacking healthcare access and refer them to appropriate authorities • Engage in community outreach and awareness campaigns • Participate in periodic meetings and mobilize for public sensitization • Collaborate with union-level child marriage prevention committees • Promote 4+ ANC checkups and institutional delivery through linkage-building and awareness drives Conclusion: Shushilan’s initiative to form and activate Networking Committees across Bhola’s 7 upazilas marks not only the revival of dormant community structures, but a significant step toward sustainable social change. With these empowered local bodies in place, it is expected that the district will witness measurable improvements in the protection, health, and wellbeing of its women and children. Read More

Staff Review Meeting of SBC Project – 10th Tranche Held in Bhola Staff Review Meeting of SBC Project – 10th Tranche Held in Bhola

Posted on: June 15, 2025, 10:36 am



The bi-monthly staff review meeting of the Social and Behavior Change (SBC) project – 10th Tranche was successfully held on 27 May 2025 at the Civil Surgeon Office conference room in Bhola. The even... The bi-monthly staff review meeting of the Social and Behavior Change (SBC) project – 10th Tranche was successfully held on 27 May 2025 at the Civil Surgeon Office conference room in Bhola. The event brought together 50 participants, including field staff, project officials from seven upazilas, and representatives from UNICEF and Shushilan. The meeting was inaugurated by Ms. Sherina Akther, Deputy Director and Project Focal of Shushilan, and was graced by distinguished guests including Mr. Anwar Hossain, Chief Field Officer (CFO) of UNICEF Barishal Field Office, Ms. Rama Saha, Nutrition Officer, and Mr. Saidur Rahman, MICIN Officer. The objectives of the meeting were to enhance mutual understanding among staff, review implementation progress and challenges of the 10th tranche, and build team capacity in nutrition, facilitation, and financial management. Key Highlights: • Opening Session: Participants engaged in a creative introduction and shared personal reflections on project achievements such as improved menstrual hygiene awareness, increased use of health services, and adoption of Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC). • Progress Review: Project Officers presented multimedia reports highlighting achievements and challenges. Notably, the CFO pledged to personally award two top-performing field workers in the next meeting and approved the provision of educational materials for dropout children. • Technical Sessions: o Nutrition: Led by Ms. Rama Saha, this session covered malnutrition, the 1000 days nutrition window, GMP, maternal nutrition, and upcoming interventions by UNICEF. o Facilitation Techniques: Mr. Anwar Hossain shared field strategies for effective community engagement. o Financial Management: Mr. Moslehuddin Ahmed reviewed fund utilization (92.3% burn rate) and emphasized policy compliance and timely documentation. Voices from the Field: Participants expressed appreciation for the interactive nature of the meeting. "It felt like Eid!" said Khaleda Begum Pinku from Monpura, highlighting the emotional value of these gatherings. Others emphasized the motivational impact of recognition and learning from senior officials. Closing and Commitments: Mr. Anwar Hossain called the meeting a “successful and emotional day,” commending Shushilan for its dedication and promising that staff expectations would be addressed in future tranches. Ms. Sherina Akther concluded the event by urging the team to sustain their efforts and thanking all attendees for their contributions. Read More

UPOKULBONDHUR GAN (The song of Upokulbondhu), Episode Number # 11, Subject: Love UPOKULBONDHUR GAN (The song of Upokulbondhu), Episode Number # 11, Subject: Love

Posted on: May 23, 2025, 8:35 pm



Upokulbondhu Mostofa Nuruzzaman, Founder and Chief Executive Shushilan has written the lyrics, composed the music and performed as a singer for over 1200 songs over the past two years. Covering lots o... Upokulbondhu Mostofa Nuruzzaman, Founder and Chief Executive Shushilan has written the lyrics, composed the music and performed as a singer for over 1200 songs over the past two years. Covering lots of themes such as patriotism, aspiration, nature, love, Sundarbon, devotion, local folk, and personal dedications and what not. Inspired by this creative outpouring, Shushilan's Cultural Team organised a monthly program titled "Hrridoy Bajao Bashi" (Play the Flute in Your Heart) through an online platform. The program was broadcast live on the Shushilan’s YouTube channel Hidoye Bashobas. Every third Wednesday of each month, from 5 PM to 6 PM, the Cultural Team of Shushilan organised this event with the amazing leadership of Rima Akther, Cultural Team Manager. In addition to the musical performances, the event feathers a tribute segment dedicated to theme love and affection of different color and step of lover’s life tenure. It was not just a cultural event but also a warm and enjoyable time of cultural celebration. The event concluded with the announcement and invitation for Episode number twelve on next 17 June 2025, 5 PM at YouTube Channel Hidoye Basobas (https://www.youtube.com/@shushilanbd). Read More

Shushilan Celebrates 100th Staff Development Training Milestone Shushilan Celebrates 100th Staff Development Training Milestone

Posted on: May 18, 2025, 11:32 am



Shushilan celebrated the 100th Staff Development Training (Noon Session) through an online platform, attended by 419 staff members from across the country. This milestone reflects the organization’s... Shushilan celebrated the 100th Staff Development Training (Noon Session) through an online platform, attended by 419 staff members from across the country. This milestone reflects the organization’s strong and ongoing commitment to continuous learning and professional development. The program commenced with the National Anthem, the Shushilan Song and a flower greeting ceremony to warmly welcome the participants. The program was then formally inaugurated by the Chief Executive. Following the opening, Mihir Dutta, Head of the HR Cell and Sk. Amirul Islam, Advisor (OD) and Coordinator of the Staff Development Training, delivered congratulatory messages, appreciating the dedication and enthusiasm of all involved. The entire session was led and facilitated by Sherina Akther, Deputy Director. A panel of six participants shared their training experiences and the impact on fieldwork and team development. Next, three Lead Facilitators — Sherina Akther for Group 5; Mostafa Akhteruzzaman, for Group 6; and Rima Akther, for Group 7 — presented a comprehensive overview of the training journey, achievements and future directions. In addition, senior staff members offered valuable reflections, while five field staff shared how these capacity-building sessions have influenced their professional growth and confidence. The event was enriched with cultural performances, including songs by Upakul Bandu and the cultural team, traditional dances, colorful decorations and creative presentations. At the end, the Deputy Chief Executive delivered an inspiring speech highlighting the importance of staff development training. The session concluded with a vote of thanks from the Chief Executive. Read More

Successful Completion of Annual Staff Appraisal (Written) 2024–25 in Bhola Region Successful Completion of Annual Staff Appraisal (Written) 2024–25 in Bhola Region

Posted on: April 30, 2025, 9:54 am



Regular performance evaluations are much vital for enhancing staff capacity, strengthening organizational knowledge, and ensuring sustainable growth. These evaluations help identify employee strengths... Regular performance evaluations are much vital for enhancing staff capacity, strengthening organizational knowledge, and ensuring sustainable growth. These evaluations help identify employee strengths, development needs, and future potential. Every year, Shushilan conducts an annual staff Apprisal, where employees are assessed based on written examination, viva, job performance skills, professional conduct, and ethics. The written part of this evaluation has been held simultaneously across Shushilan's 11 offices nationwide. In continuation of this process at April 26, 2025, Shushilan Bhola area organized a written Annual Staff Appraisal 2-4 grade(written) 2024-25 at Lalmohan Wahabuddin Secondary School, Lalmohan, Bhola. A total of 45 staff members participated, including 33 (21 male, 12 female) from the UNICEF-funded Social and Behavior Change (SBC) project and 12 (all male) from the World Food Programme (WFP)-funded SRSP project. The examination commenced at 11:00 AM and concluded at 1:00 PM in a well-managed and festive environment. The event was conducted by Rekha Yesmin, Project Coordinator of the SBC-Bhola project, and Mosleh Uddin Ahmed, Finance and Admin Officer. Participants actively engaged in the evaluation process, demonstrating enthusiasm and commitment. The examination was conducted in an organized and transparent manner. Staff members expressed their appreciation to Shushilan's management for providing this opportunity. They acknowledged that regular assessments are crucial for developing professional competencies and preparing for future challenges in a competitive environment. Read More