ঢাকারবিবার , ৯ অগাস্ট ২০২৬
The Nordic Forum of Bangladeshi Academicians and Researchers (NF-BAR), in partnership with Karolinska Institute, hosted a high-level seminar titled “Health Sector Reform in Bangladesh – Bridging Policy, Practice and International Collaboration” on Friday, 31 October 2025 in Stockholm.
The event brought together experts, academics, researchers, and development professionals to discuss the recommendations of the Health Sector Reform Commission of Bangladesh. The seminar focused on aligning reform priorities with evidence-based research, current health system needs, and opportunities for international cooperation — particularly with Nordic institutions.
Chaired by Professor Clas Rehnberg, the seminar featured a distinguished panel comprising Professor Dr. Rumana Huque (University of Dhaka) and Associate Professor Dr. Birger Forsberg (Karolinska Institutet). The session was moderated by Dr. Habib Sakil.
Dr. Ehsanur Rahman, Scientist at icddr,b and a member of Bangladesh Health Sector Reform Commission, delivered an overview of the Commission’s reform proposals, setting the stage for thematic presentations, followed by presentations of experts (all NF-BAR members) based in universities, research institutes, and industry: Dr. Syed Moshfiqur Rahman, Dr. Gazi Mohiuddin, Dr. Setara Begum, Dr. Hasanuzzaman Bhuyian, Dr. Rasel Al-Amin, Professor Jahangir Khan and Professor Gazi Salah Uddin
Speakers shared research-based insights on environmental health, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, human resources for health, and healthcare financing — linking the Bangladesh context with Nordic best practices, particularly from Sweden.
The seminar was honored by the presence of Her Excellency Ms. Wahida Ahmed, Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Sweden, who called for strengthened research partnerships between NF-BAR and Nordic institutes to advance Bangladesh’s health sector development.
Reflecting on the discussions, Professor Rumana Huque and Dr. Birger Forsberg emphasized the urgency of comprehensive health sector reform and the value of continued academic collaboration.
Professor Rehnberg closed the event with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the shared commitment to fostering sustainable improvements in Bangladesh’s health system through research, policy dialogue, and international partnership.
