Disability care initiative launched in Korail
A nationwide initiative aimed at providing integrated healthcare, rehabilitation and social support services to children with disabilities was launched on Thursday by Dr Zubaida Rahman from the Korail Slum in the capital.
The programme, titled ‘Shishu Shorgo Model’, was inaugurated at Ershad Ground in Korail under the initiative of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Officials said the project is the country’s first coordinated national effort to provide comprehensive healthcare and rehabilitation support for children with disabilities, with plans to gradually expand the services across Bangladesh.
Before inaugurating the programme, Dr Zubaida Rahman visited several stalls displaying educational materials, assistive products and healthcare items designed for children with special needs.
Speaking at the event, health sector officials highlighted the importance of ensuring accessible healthcare and social inclusion for children with disabilities, particularly those living in underprivileged communities.
Dr MA Muhit attended the programme as keynote speaker, while other guests included Mir Shahe Alam, Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki and Farzana Sharmin Putul.
The event was chaired by Health and Family Welfare Secretary Md Quamruzzaman Chowdhury, with Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services Prof Dr Pravath Chandra Biswas serving as co-chair.
A seminar on disability healthcare and rehabilitation services was also held alongside the inauguration ceremony.
Representatives from international organisations, urban development authorities and health institutions attended the seminar, where speakers stressed the need for long-term and sustainable support systems for children with disabilities and their families.
The initiative formally begins its activities through integrated service delivery for children with disabilities living in the Korail Slum, one of the country’s largest informal settlements.
