Govt approves construction of psychiatric institute in Pabna

NN ONLINE:

Primary and Mass Education Adviser Professor Dr Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar on Sunday said the government has approved a plan to transform Pabna Mental Hospital into a modern, international-standard psychiatric institute as part of its priority to strengthen the country’s mental healthcare system.

He made the remarks while speaking at the award-giving and reception ceremony of the 12th International Conference on Psychiatry, organised by the Bangladesh Association of Psychiatrists (BAP) at a hotel in the capital, according to a PID handout.

The adviser said the National Institute of Mental Health in Dhaka has long been facing constraints in expanding education, research and services due to a shortage of space. Utilising Pabna’s infrastructure and improved connectivity it is possible to develop a new world-class institution, he added.

Bidhan Ranjan said  recognising promising researchers in psychiatry will encourage them to contribute more, ultimately benefiting the sector and the country. The adviser also called on participants to maintain professionalism and continue practising psychiatry with unity.