When Share-Net Bangladesh started its journey in Bangladesh a decade ago, the vision was clear to create a space where knowledge could drive meaningful change in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Ten years later, that vision has blossomed into a dynamic, thriving network with over 2,000 individual members and 150+organisational members that has helped reshape conversations, influence policies, and empower communities across Bangladesh.
The milestone was marked with an event aptly titled ‘A Decade of SRHR Knowledge Management in Bangladesh’ organised by Share-Net Bangladesh and hosted by RedOrange Communications, with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Netherlands at a city hotel on Thursday last.
The function was a reflective gathering, a reflection moment to take stock, to celebrate collective achievements, and most importantly, to recommit to a future where SRHR rights are fully realised for every individual, said a media release.
Knowledge alone does not spark change, but knowledge shared, lived, and acted upon does. This philosophy was at the heart of every session during the celebration. From outcome-harvesting discussions to real-time surveys capturing community voices, Share-Net Bangladesh showcased how knowledge management can be participatory, inclusive, and action-oriented.
On behalf of the Share-Net Bangladesh team, Dr Farhana Huq, the Country Coordinator of SNBD, extended heartfelt thanks to its partners, members, and contributors whose relentless efforts and shared vision have fuelled a decade of success. Special recognition was also given to the impactful collaborations, community-driven initiatives, and inspiring stories that have defined SNBD’s journey so far.
Chief Guest Thijs Woudstra, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Dhaka, put it best as he highlighted how the Netherlands is committed to SRHR.
He further focused on the intrinsic link between human rights and SRHR that cannot be overstated. Platforms like Share-Net Bangladesh have proven that knowledge can be a powerful agent for advocacy, dialogue, and transformation.
Jannatul Munia, Knowledge Management Expert, SNBD, in her session on ‘10 years of Share-Net Bangladesh’, spoke about her personal and professional journey with SNBD.
SNBD officers -- Rifa Tamanna and Sajed Karim led the live survey session.
Dr Halida Hanum Akhter, a long-standing advocate and chairperson of the event, reflected emotionally saying, “SRHR has been my life’s journey. Connecting with others who are passionate about this work reaffirms that we are not alone. Together, we are the movement.”
Dr Muhammad Munir Hossain, a UNFPA focal person, emphasised the importance of bridging digital divides and using technology to reach wider audiences, ensuring that no one is left behind in the SRHR dialogue.
The event concluded with remarks from Arnob Chakrabarty, Project Director of Share-Net Bangladesh.
He said, “Share-Net will continue in Bangladesh. We are proud of our journey so far, but we are even more excited about the future. Let us commit to deepening our impact, broadening our reach, and nurturing the next generation of SRHR leaders.
Indeed, as Bangladesh continues to navigate global challenges and opportunities, platforms like Share-Net Bangladesh will remain critical, not just as knowledge brokers but as builders of a more just, inclusive, and healthier future.”
bd-pratidin/GR
