The Economic Relations Division (ERD) has signed a $170,000 grant agreement with UNESCO to implement the ‘Health Promoting School’ (HPS) Programme, aimed at integrating health promotion into the education system to enhance students’ physical, mental, and social well-being.
Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Secretary of ERD, and Susan Vize, UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, formalized the agreement at a recent ceremony at the ERD office. The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Education and other key stakeholders.
Part of UNESCO’s global initiative to improve school health systems, the HPS Programme prioritizes Bangladesh and Honduras for implementation in 2024. Building on UNESCO’s experience in 21 member states, the program will address bullying, cyberbullying, and promote inclusive education and safe learning environments.
Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education), the initiative will engage agencies such as the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE), National Academy for Educational Management (NAEM), and the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB).
UNESCO will provide financial and technical support to deliver measurable outcomes in school health policies and practices, emphasizing mental health, combating discrimination, and fostering positive use of technology.
