In the quest for better health outcomes, knowledge is key. It’s not just about having the information but also about knowing how to effectively apply it. Through the Country Learning Hub for Immunisation Equity in Bangladesh, strides have been made towards improving child immunisation through a series of training sessions on implementation research conducted by icddr,b.

The country faces significant challenges in ensuring every child receives essential vaccines. To address these challenges, icddr,b, in collaboration with various stakeholders, initiated a program titled ‘Country Learning Hub for Immunisation Equity in Bangladesh’. This program aims to bridge the gap between research findings and on-ground implementation, particularly focusing on maternal, newborn, and child health.

The series of training sessions kicked off with a two-day workshop in Saghata Upazila of Gaibandha district. The training brought together health department officials and field workers from all levels. Dr. Arifuzzaman, the Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer, chaired the session. Despite the absence of Dr. Md. Abdullah Mafi, the Civil Surgeon of Gaibandha, due to prior commitments, the workshop saw active participation from representatives like Mr. Rayhana Islam from the DC-CS Office and esteemed individuals like Dr. Azizul Haque Tanzil from the World Health Organization.

Following the success of the Saghata session, similar workshops were organized in Kawkhali Upazila of Rangamati district, Hatia Upazila of Noakhali, and Doarabazar Upazila of Sunamganj district. Each session aimed to equip participants with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively implement evidence-based strategies for child immunisation.

Dr. Suimipru Roaja, the Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer of Kawkhali, led the session in Rangamati. Notable figures like Dr. Md. Mohiuddin and Dr. Nihar Ranjan Nandi graced the occasion, emphasising the importance of evidence-based practices in improving child health outcomes.

In Hatia Upazila of Noakhali, Dr. Saumen Saha spearheaded the training session, with Suraiya Akhtar Lucky, the Executive Officer, as the chief guest. The workshop saw the participation of key figures like Dr. Sheikh Md. Mahmudur Rahman and Dr. Md. Khaled Saifullah, alongside representatives from international organizations like the World Health Organization.

Finally, the series concluded in Doarabazar Upazila of Sunamganj district, under the leadership of Dr. Abu Salehin Khan. The workshop focused on empowering participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement evidence-based interventions for child immunisation.

Through these training sessions, icddr,b, in collaboration with stakeholders, is paving the way for evidence-based strategies to improve child immunisation rates across Bangladesh. By bridging the gap between research and implementation, these initiatives are instrumental in realising the nation’s health goals and achieving Sustainable Development Goal targets.