Dhaka Mail – October 20, 2022, At a national webinar organized by WBB Trust on “Tobacco Taxation and Corporate Interference”, public health experts and development professionals voiced serious concerns over the government’s continued shareholding in tobacco companies, calling it the biggest barrier to implementing effective tobacco tax policies in Bangladesh.

Held on October 19, the webinar emphasized that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s commitment to a tobacco-free Bangladesh by 2040, along with the country’s SDG targets, remain at risk due to the tobacco industry's interference in government policymaking.

🔻 Key Points Highlighted:

• Tobacco industry influence: Speakers strongly criticized the government's financial stake in tobacco companies, which they say enables harmful industry lobbying and delays policy reforms.
• Tax policy and misinformation: Multinational tobacco companies are spreading false claims, such as increased tobacco taxes will reduce government revenue — a narrative debunked by health economists.
• Economic reality: Although tobacco brings in revenue, the healthcare cost from tobacco-related diseases outweighs that income, with over 30,570 crore BDT in health costs vs. 30,000 crore BDT in revenue.
• Public health vs. corporate profit: The interests of tobacco companies are in direct conflict with public health, and legislative reforms must prioritize people's well-being over industry profits.
• Call for legal reform: The participants demanded stronger implementation and amendment of the Smoking and Tobacco Products (Control) Act, along with removal of industry influence from policymaking bodies.

🔹 Featured Speakers Included:

• Md. Fahimul Islam, Consultant, The Union
• Nasir Uddin Sheikh, Country Manager (Bangladesh), Vital Strategies
• Hamidul Islam Hillol, Tobacco Tax Researcher, BNTTP
• Helal Ahmed, General Secretary, Protyasha Drug Prevention Organization
• Ibrahim Khalil, Project Officer, Bureau of Economic Research, University of Dhaka

🔹 Hosted By:

Syeda Ananya Rahman, Head of Programs, WBB Trust
Keynote Presentation by Mithun Baidya, Project Officer, WBB Trust

🔹 Organizing & Participating Organizations Included:

• Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha (SPUUS)
• Protyasha Social Development Organization
• Three Star Organization
• Development for Disadvantaged People (DDP)
• Village Development Center (VDC)
• Sotota Development Society, SEBA, TPDO, Esho Jibon Gori
• Chandpur Community Development Society (CCDS)
• Mamata Palli Unnayan Sangstha, DAS-Bangladesh, Shobuj Bangla, Keraniganj Human Resources Development Society, PDS, and many more

Speakers concluded with a united appeal to the government to:

• Sever financial ties with tobacco companies
• Enact stricter tax policies and legal reforms
• Strengthen enforcement mechanisms
• Empower grassroots organizations to counter tobacco industry propaganda

April 21, 2025 – Daily Meherpur, An awareness rally was organized in Meherpur on Monday morning in anticipation of the upcoming Renewable Energy Fest 2025, scheduled to take place in Dhaka on April 23–24. The rally aimed to raise public awareness about climate change, renewable energy transformation, and the need for a just energy transition.

The event began at 10:00 AM from the Meherpur Deputy Commissioner's Office courtyard, marched through the town’s main streets, and concluded at the District Shilpakala Academy.

The rally was organized by Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha with support from ActionAid Bangladesh, BUET, and the Just Energy Transition Network Bangladesh (JETNet-BD).

Key participants included:

• Rafiqul Alam, Former General Secretary of Meherpur Press Club and President of CAB, Meherpur
• Majedul Haque, RTV District Correspondent and CAB Meherpur General Secretary
• Abu Abid, Executive Director, Society for the Promotion of Human Rights (HPHR)
• Ismail Hossain, Traffic Inspector
• Golam Kibria, Executive Director, Palli Jan Unnayan Sangstha
• Monirul Islam, District Representative, BRAC
• Dilara Jahan, Executive Director, Health Foundation
• Rehena Khatun, Executive Director, Aparajita Meherpur

Over a hundred participants including youth, women leaders, environmental activists, and civil society representatives joined the rally.

Participants held placards and banners bearing messages such as:

• “Solar and Wind Power are the Future”
• “Youth and Women in Energy Transition”
• “Make Renewable Energy Fest 2025 a Success”

In a brief post-rally assembly, speakers emphasized:

• The importance of technological innovation in renewable energy
• The need for policy reforms supporting clean energy
• Social justice and inclusive participation in energy transformation

Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, remarked:

“Sustainable energy transformation is not just the responsibility of governments and institutions. Every segment of society must be involved. This rally marks the beginning of that collective journey.”

 

Mujibnagar Khobor, May 18, 2024, On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, a discussion meeting was organized by Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha at its office premises in Amjhupi, Meherpur.

The program focused on raising awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and the importance of creating a smoke-free environment for public health. Speakers highlighted the need for stronger enforcement of the Tobacco Control Act and urged community members to participate in anti-tobacco campaigns to protect the younger generation.

Community leaders, local representatives, health officials, and civil society members were present and expressed their commitment to working together for a tobacco-free future.

Mujibnagar Khabor December 02, 2019, On the occasion of NGO Foundation Day, a rally and discussion meeting were held in Meherpur on Monday, organized jointly by the Meherpur District Administration and the NGO Foundation.

The discussion session took place in the courtyard of the Meherpur District Administration, presided over by Mosharraf Hossain, President of the Meherpur District NGO Association. The chief guest at the event was Md. Toufiqul Rahman, Deputy Director of the Local Government Division.

Speakers at the session included:

• Abu Zafar, Executive Director, Sandhani Sangstha
• Moinul Ahmed, Executive Director, Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha

Prior to the discussion, a colorful rally was brought out, led by Md. Toufiqul Rahman. The procession started from the Shilpakala Academy premises, moved through the town’s main roads, and concluded at the District Administration premises.

The event highlighted the significant contributions of NGOs in community development and emphasized continued collaboration between non-governmental organizations and local authorities for sustainable progress.

Mujibnagar Khabor, March 9, 2019, In celebration of International Women’s Day 2019, a two-day series of events—including a rally, discussion sessions, and a development fair—was held in Gangni Upazila, Meherpur. The initiative was organized by the Gangni Upazila Administration in collaboration with the Department of Women Affairs.

On Friday, March 8, the day’s events began with a vibrant rally that started at 10 AM and paraded through the main roads of Gangni town. The rally was led by Gangni UNO Bishnupod Pal and joined by representatives from various government offices, NGOs, and civil society.

Notable attendees included:

• Sazedul Islam, OC (Investigation), Gangni Police Station
• Sirajul Islam, educator, cultural personality, and President of the Meherpur District Chapter of the National Girl Child Advocacy Forum
• Moniruzzaman, Organizational Secretary, Gangni Upazila Awami League and representative of MP Sahiduzzaman Khokon
• Nasima Begum, Upazila Women Affairs Officer
• Khorshed Alam, Regional Coordinator (Jessore), The Hunger Project-Bangladesh
• Bulbul Ahmed, Executive Director, Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha
• Representatives of BRAC, Sandhani Sangstha, Palashipara Samaj Kalyan Samiti, and several other women's welfare and rights organizations

Following the rally, the Women’s Development Fair was inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, featuring stalls from over 15 women-led and women-focused organizations.

A discussion session was later held at the Upazila Parishad Conference Room, presided over by Nasima Begum. Chief guest UNO Bishnupod Pal and other dignitaries addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of women’s rights, empowerment, and active civic engagement.

The program was moderated by journalist Amirul Islam Aldam, with speeches by:

• Abdur Rashid, President of SUJAN and former Assistant Professor, Gangni Govt. Degree College
• Moniruzzaman Atu, Awami League Leader
• Many others from community-based organizations and local administration

Guests also toured the various stalls set up by organizations such as Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, BRAC, The Hunger Project, Adarsha Mohila Kalyan Samiti, and Surjomukhi Mohila Kalyan Samiti among others.

Organizers announced that the closing ceremony of the fair would take place the following Saturday.

Mujibnagar Khabor, February 11, 2018, The biennial general meeting of the Meherpur District NGO Association was held on Saturday at the Vatpara Neelkuthi premises in Gangni Upazila. During the meeting, a new 11-member executive committee was formed to lead the organization for the next term.

In the newly announced committee:

• Mosharraf Hossain, Executive Director of Palashipara Samaj Kalyan Samiti, was elected as President
• Abu Zafar, Executive Director of Sandhani Sangstha, was elected as General Secretary

Other elected committee members:

• Vice President: Abu Zafar (Executive Director, DBS)
• Treasurer: Rehena Khatun (District Representative, Khan Foundation)

Executive Members:

• Mosharraf Hossain (District Representative, BRAC)
• Abu Naser Chowdhury (Executive Director, Meherpur Foundation)
• Moin-ul-Alam (Executive Director, Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha)
• Wazed Ali (Manager, SPID)
• Shefali Khatun (Area Manager, Wave Foundation)
• Mohituzzaman Milon (Area Manager, Jagorani Chakra Foundation)
• Ashanur Rahman (Regional Manager, ASA)

The gathering served to strengthen inter-organizational collaboration and reaffirm the shared mission of advancing community development across Meherpur through united NGO efforts.

Dainik Mathabhanga, June 1, 2022, With the slogan “Tobacco-Free Environment, a Healthier Bangladesh”, World No Tobacco Day 2022 was commemorated through vibrant rallies and discussion sessions in Chuadanga, Meherpur, and Jibannagar Upazila. The events drew attention to the harmful effects of tobacco and drugs, calling for collective action to protect the youth from addiction.

🔹 Chuadanga District

The main rally in Chuadanga was inaugurated at 10 AM by Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Aminul Islam Khan from the DC office courtyard. The rally marched through the town’s main streets and concluded with a discussion meeting at the District Commissioner’s Conference Room.

Speakers included:

• Dr. Auliya Rahman, Upazila Health Officer (representing the Civil Surgeon)
• Additional District Magistrate Arafat Rahman
• Former Principal Siddiqur Rahman, Chuadanga Govt. College
• Acting District Education Officer Ataur Rahman

Speakers stressed that nearly 4 crore people in the country are exposed to secondhand smoke and emphasized that legislation alone cannot curb tobacco use. A sustained social movement is necessary for effective tobacco control and sustainable development.

They also urged tobacco users to quit immediately and encouraged farmers to shift from tobacco to food crop cultivation. Importantly, the speakers called for collective efforts to protect youth from the grasp of narcotics.

🔹 Jibannagar Upazila

A separate rally and discussion were held at Jibannagar, organized by the Upazila Administration. The rally started at 10 AM and was followed by a session in the Upazila conference hall, presided over by UNO Md. Ariful Islam.

Speakers included:

• Upazila Chairman Haji Md. Hafizur Rahman
• Assistant Commissioner (Land) Tithi Mitra
• Vice Chairman Abdus Salam Isha
• Female Vice Chairman Ayesha Sultana Lucky
• Food Controller Md. Obaidul Islam
• Social Services Officer Zakir Uddin Moral
• Journalist Salauddin Kajol

Government officials and local school students participated enthusiastically in the event.

🔹 Meherpur District

In Meherpur, the day was observed with a rally starting at 9:30 AM, led by Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education) Ashraful Bhuiyan. The procession moved through the town and ended at the DC office, followed by a formal discussion.

Key participants included:

• Shamsul Alam, Deputy Director, Department of Agricultural Extension
• UNO Asaduzzaman Ripon, Sadar Upazila
• Dr. Alok Kumar Das, Health & Family Planning Officer, Sadar Upazila
• Dr. Mokhlesur Rahman, RMO, 250-bed General Hospital
• Dr. S.M. Shafiul Islam, Junior Health Education Officer, Civil Surgeon Office
• Tariqul Islam, Sanitary Inspector
• Touhid Ud Doula, Executive Director, Ashray Samaj Unnayan Sangstha
• Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director, Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha

Government staff, nurses, and students from various schools and colleges actively participated in both the rally and discussion.

Dainik Mathabhanga, September 7, 2022, An exchange meeting titled “Amendment of the Tobacco Control Law and Preventing Industry Interference” was held on Tuesday morning in Chuadanga. The event was jointly organized by the Bangladesh Anti-Tobacco Alliance and Protyasha Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, and took place at the organization's conference room.

The meeting was presided over by Md. Billal Hossain, Executive Director of Protyasha, and the chief guest was Saifuddin Ahmed, Executive Director of WBB Trust and National Coordinator of the Bangladesh Anti-Tobacco Alliance.

In his keynote speech, Saifuddin Ahmed stated that “The amendment of the Smoking and Tobacco Products (Control) Act 2005 (Amended 2013) is now a necessity. The Ministry of Health’s new proposed amendments are both timely and globally aligned. Many countries have already adopted similar provisions and are reaping the benefits.”

He highlighted that tobacco companies are aggressively campaigning through proxies to block these amendments, particularly the licensing provision, as such clauses threaten their market expansion.

Ahmed further explained, “While the tobacco sector contributed BDT 30,000 crore in revenue last year, the financial cost of tobacco-related harms amounted to BDT 30,570 crore. This reality underscores the urgent need for reform.” He also reiterated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s commitment to make Bangladesh tobacco-free by 2040.

Ziaur Rahman, Executive Director of Swapno Sangstha, attended as a special guest.

Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, delivered the welcome speech.

Other speakers included:

• Saidur Rahman Lipu, Executive Director, Grameen Samajik Unnayan Sangstha
• Kamruzzaman Kanchan, Executive Director, Compact Foundation
• Journalists Ahsan Alam and Meherabbi Sanvi
• Yunus Ali, Project Coordinator, PRPDP
• Tofayel Ahmed, Project Coordinator, WASAIF Project

The event was moderated by Saidur Rahman, Program Focal and Coordinator at Protyasha Samajik Unnayan Sangstha.

Meherpur News, April 21, 2025, An awareness rally was held in Meherpur to promote the importance of tackling the climate crisis, increasing the use of renewable energy, and ensuring a just energy transition.

Organized by Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha with support from ActionAid Bangladesh and the Just Energy Transition Network Bangladesh, the rally aimed to raise public awareness ahead of the upcoming Renewable Energy Fest 2025, scheduled to be held in Dhaka on April 23–24.

The rally began Monday morning from the courtyard of the Meherpur Deputy Commissioner’s Office, led by Rafiqul Alam, President of the Meherpur District CAB (Consumers Association of Bangladesh). It passed through the main roads of Meherpur town and concluded at the Meherpur Public Library premises.

Among the notable participants were:

• Traffic Inspector Ismail Hossain
• Monirul Islam, District Representative of BRAC
• Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha
• Abu Abid, Executive Director of Society Human Rights
• Golam Kibria, Executive Director of Palli Janunnayan Sangstha
• Rehena Khatun, Executive Director of Aparajita

The rally conveyed the fest’s message across communities, calling for grassroots participation in renewable energy advocacy and sustainable climate action.

Meherpur News, December 2, 2024, Bangladesh NGO Foundation Day 2024 was observed with due significance in Meherpur through a joint initiative of the Meherpur District Administration and partner organizations of the Bangladesh NGO Foundation (BNF).

On Monday, a discussion meeting was held at the Meherpur District Model Mosque and Islamic Cultural Center. The event was presided over by Md. Mosharraf Hossain, President of the Meherpur District NGO Association.

The chief guest was Tariqul Islam, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General), Meherpur. Special guests included A.J.M. Sirajum Munir, Deputy Director of Islamic Foundation Meherpur, and Monirul Islam, BRAC District Representative.

The event was anchored by Abu Zafar, Executive Director of Sandhani Sangstha, and the welcome address was delivered by Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, which represents BNF in the district.

Speakers at the discussion highlighted the vital contributions of NGOs to national development, emphasizing how they work alongside the government for the welfare of society.

Among others who addressed the gathering were:

• Murad Hossain, development worker, MOUK
• Golam Kibria, Executive Director, Palli Janunnayan Kallyan Sangstha, Meherpur
• Mahima Khatun, Shamiara Khatun, Sufia Khatun, and Hasnat Ali, who spoke as beneficiaries of NGO programs

Earlier in the day, a colorful rally led by ADC Tariqul Islam started from the Deputy Commissioner’s office and paraded through the main roads, concluding at the Islamic Foundation premises. NGO leaders, staff, beneficiaries, and people from various professions participated in the rally and discussion.

Meherpur News, May 18, 2024, An exchange meeting on the implementation of the Tobacco Control Law was held on Saturday afternoon at the auditorium of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha in Amjhupi, Meherpur Sadar Upazila.

The event was organized by Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha and was presided over by Sirajul Islam, Acting Chairman of Amjhupi Union.

Key speakers included:

• Tariqul Islam, Sanitary Inspector of Meherpur Sadar Upazila
• Moinul Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha

The discussion emphasized local enforcement of tobacco control measures, community awareness, and inter-agency cooperation to create a healthier, smoke-free environment.

Meherpur News, May 29, 2022, A workshop on anti-drug initiatives and the formulation of policy recommendations was held on Sunday afternoon at the auditorium of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha in Amjhupi, Meherpur Sadar Upazila.

The event was organized by Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha with the support of the Department of Narcotics Control, Meherpur District.

The session was presided over by Saidur Rahman, President of the Executive Committee of Subah. Biplob Kumar Kundu, Youth Development Officer of Meherpur Sadar Upazila, attended as the chief guest.

Speakers included:

• Inspector Abdul Mannan, Department of Narcotics Control, Meherpur
• Moinul Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha

The workshop emphasized strategic planning and community collaboration to combat drug abuse at the grassroots level, while also encouraging youth involvement in awareness and prevention programs.

Meherpur News, August 30, 2010, A public awareness meeting aimed at increasing access to education for minority and ultra-poor children was held at the Buripota Union Parishad auditorium in Meherpur Sadar Upazila on Monday. The initiative was organized by Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha with financial support from the Primary Education Development Program (PEDP-II) under the Directorate of Primary Education.

The meeting was chaired by PG Uddin, President of the Managing Committee of Shalika Non-Government Primary School. Advocate Shahajahan Ali, Chairman of Buripota Union Parishad, was present as the chief guest.

Journalist Rafiqul Alam attended as the special guest. Other speakers included:

• Md. Roichuddin, President of Fatehpur Primary School Managing Committee
• Shahabuddin, Head Teacher of Shalika Primary School
• Rabeya Khatun, who spoke on behalf of underprivileged families

The welcome address was delivered by Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha.

The session emphasized the importance of community awareness in ensuring that every child—regardless of background—has the opportunity to attend school and receive quality primary education.

Meherpur News, December 11, 2020, With the theme "We Will Rise Again, Human Rights for All", International Human Rights Day was observed in Meherpur through a discussion meeting organized by the Human Rights Defender Forum Meherpur, in collaboration with Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK).

The event took place on Friday afternoon at the Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha auditorium.

The session was presided over by Moin-ul-Alam, Member Secretary of the Human Rights Defender Forum. The chief guest of the event was Md. Zahidul Islam, Head Teacher of Raghunathpur Colony Para Government Primary School.

Speakers highlighted the importance of upholding human rights for all citizens and emphasized the need for collective action to protect vulnerable communities and promote justice.

Meherpur News, October 14, 2018, The Meherpur District NGO Association organized a courtesy visit with Deputy Commissioner Md. Ataul Gani on Sunday morning to foster collaboration and strengthen ties between the local administration and civil society organizations.

The visit was led by Mosharraf Hossain, President of the District NGO Association. On behalf of the NGO community, he presented a bouquet of flowers to the Deputy Commissioner as a token of respect and goodwill.

Several prominent NGO representatives were present during the meeting, including:

• Mosharraf Hossain, District Representative of BRAC
• Abu Zafar, Executive Director of Daridro Bimochon Sangstha
• Abu Zafar, Executive Director of Sandhani Sangstha
• Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha
• Rehena Khatun, Representative of Aparajita

The gathering marked a positive step towards mutual understanding and cooperation in driving sustainable development efforts within Meherpur district.

Meherpur News, August 19, 2018, Superintendent of Police Mohammad Mostafizur Rahman firmly stated that there is no room for terrorism or militancy in Bangladesh. “If anyone thinks they can harbor or support terrorism under any guise, they are gravely mistaken—there will be no leniency,” he said.

He made these remarks on Sunday morning during an exchange meeting with representatives of various NGOs at the Superintendent of Police Office in Meherpur. The SP also urged NGO leaders to ensure that no activities outside the bounds of lawful development work are carried out under the cover of NGO operations.

The meeting was attended by several notable figures, including:

• Abu Zafar, Executive Director of Meherpur Daridro Bimochon Sangstha
• Md. Mosharraf Hossain, District Representative of BRAC
• Abu Zafar, Executive Director of Sandhani Sangstha
• Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha
• Rehena Mannan, representative of Khan Foundation
• Abu Naser Chowdhury, Executive Director of Meherpur Foundation
• Md. Saiful Islam, Coordinator of Palashipara Samaj Kalyan Samiti

Before the meeting began, NGO representatives welcomed the newly appointed SP Mohammad Mostafizur Rahman with a bouquet of flowers.

Meherpur News, July 2, 2018, An NGO coordination meeting was held on Monday afternoon at the conference hall of the Department of Women Affairs in Meherpur, organized by the department itself to enhance collaboration among NGOs working in the region.

The meeting was presided over by SM Shafiul Azam, District Women Affairs Officer. Speakers included Nazma Khatun, Women Affairs Officer of Gangni Upazila; John P. Biswas, Coordinator of CDP; and Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha.

The discussion focused on improving alignment between government programs and NGO initiatives, particularly concerning women's development and empowerment. Representatives also shared updates on ongoing activities and future plans under various NGOs and the District Women’s Affairs Office.

Meherpur News, April 19, 2018, An NGO coordination meeting was held on Thursday morning at the office of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) in Meherpur Sadar Upazila, organized by the Meherpur Sadar Upazila Parishad.

The meeting was presided over by UNO Mizanur Rahman, and aimed to strengthen coordination among local NGOs and align their activities with government development priorities.

Speakers at the meeting included Mosharraf Hossain, District Representative of BRAC; Rehena Khatun, Coordinator of Khan Foundation; and Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, among others.

The session emphasized improved collaboration, transparency, and regular communication between NGO representatives and local administration for better service delivery at the grassroots level.

Meherpur News, February 10, 2018, The biennial general meeting of the Meherpur District NGO Association was held on Saturday, during which a new 11-member executive committee was formed.

Mosharraf Hossain, Executive Director of Palashipara Samaj Kalyan Samiti, was elected as President, and Abu Zafar, Executive Director of Sandhani Sangstha, was elected as General Secretary.

The meeting took place at Vatpara Neelkuthi DC Eco Park in Gangni Upazila.

Other committee members include:

• Vice President: Abu Zafar (Executive Director, DBS)
• Treasurer: Rehena Khatun (District Representative, Khan Foundation)

• Executive Members:

1. Mosharaf Hossain (District Representative, BRAC)
2. Abu Naser Chowdhury (Executive Director, Meherpur Foundation)
3. Moin-ul-Alam (Executive Director, Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha)
4. Wazed Ali (Manager, SPID)
5. Shefali Khatun (Area Manager, Wave Foundation)
6. Mohituzzaman Milon (Area Manager, Jagorani Chakra Foundation)
7. Ashanur Rahman (Regional Manager, ASA)

The newly formed committee aims to enhance coordination among local NGOs and strengthen collaborative development initiatives across the district. 

Meherpur News, March 30, 2017, Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, with support from the Bangladesh NGO Foundation, awarded educational scholarships to underprivileged students in Amjhupi, Meherpur.

The scholarship distribution ceremony was held on Thursday morning at the Amjhupi Union Parishad auditorium, where Acting Deputy Commissioner Khairul Hasan attended as the chief guest and personally handed out the scholarships.

The event was presided over by Amjhupi UP Chairman Borhan Uddin Ahmed Chunnu, with special guests including Motiar Rahman, President of the local Union Awami League, and senior journalist Rafiqul Alam. A welcome address was delivered by Moin Islam Bulbul, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha.

A total of 30 students from various villages of Amjhupi Union received scholarships of BDT 1,500 each. The program was moderated by journalist Mamunur Rashid.

Meherpur News, April 11, 2017, A two-day training session for field trainers under the Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) Project was successfully completed in Amjhupi, Meherpur Sadar Upazila.

The training was held at the Subah Training Center, organized by Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha with financial support from the Department of Women Affairs under the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs.

The opening session was presided over by Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha. The event’s chief guest was Shafiul Azam, District Women Affairs Officer of Meherpur. Special guests included Tajul Islam, Women Affairs Officer of Mujibnagar Upazila, and Nasima Khatun, Women Affairs Officer of Gangni Upazila.

The session was coordinated and conducted by Mamunur Rashid, Program Coordinator at Subah.

Meherpur News, May 31, 2017, In observance of World No Tobacco Day 2017, the Meherpur District Anti-Tobacco Alliance organized a leaflet distribution campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use.

The distribution took place on Wednesday morning in the courtyard of the District Commissioner’s Office.

The campaign was inaugurated by Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha. Members of the district's Anti-Tobacco Alliance were also present and participated in engaging the public with educational materials.

Meherpur News, October 31, 2017, Shalika XI secured a spot in the final of the Public Club Cup Football Tournament, organized by Amjhupi Public Club in Meherpur Sadar Upazila.

The semifinal match took place on Tuesday afternoon at the Amjhupi field, where Shalika XI triumphed over Modnadanga XI with a score of 3–1, thanks to a stunning hat-trick by Shahidul. His performance not only led his team to victory but also earned him the Man of the Match award.

The match drew a large crowd of enthusiastic spectators. After the game, Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, handed out the prizes. Motiul Ashraf was also present at the event.

Meherpur News, December 2, 2016, To mark NGO Foundation Day 2016, a rally and discussion meeting were jointly organized by the Meherpur District Administration and the Bangladesh NGO Foundation.

The day began with a colorful rally led by Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Rashidul Mannaf Kabir. The rally started from the District Shilpakala Academy premises and paraded through the main road before concluding at the Deputy Commissioner’s office courtyard.

Following the rally, a discussion meeting was held at the DC’s conference room, presided over by Mosharraf Hossain, President of the District NGO Association. Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Rashidul Mannaf Kabir attended the session as the chief guest.

Among the speakers were Abu Zafar, Executive Director of Sandhani Sangstha, journalist Rafiqul Alam, Moin-ul-Alam, Executive Director of Subah Samajik Unnayan Sangstha, and Wazed Ali, Coordinator of SPID.

The speakers highlighted the significant contributions of NGOs to local development and emphasized continued partnership between NGOs and the government to address grassroots challenges.