Dhaka, 21st April 2025 — Bangladesh’s premier institution for genetics, biotechnology, and translational oncology, ideSHi (Institute for Developing Science & Health Initiatives), successfully hosted a seminar on HPV Campaign in Bangladesh – Challenges and Way Forward.
The event gathered key stakeholders from diverse sectors, including representatives from DGHS, DGDA, BMRC, MIS under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, NIPSOM, BSMMU, and EPI units, as well as distinguished guests from other prominent organizations across Bangladesh.
The program was divided into two segments: a discussion session and the inauguration of ideSHi’s new floor. The discussion began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by ideSHi staff member Mahmudul Hassan Khan. Following this, Dr. Md. Rofiqur Rahman, Chief Operating Officer of ideSHi, delivered a brief speech highlighting ideSHi’s contributions to health research in Bangladesh. He also expressed his gratitude to ideSHi Lead Dr. Firdausi Qadri for her unwavering commitment and support.
Next, Dr. Kasrina Azad, Assistant Scientist at ideSHi, presented an overview of the organization’s efforts in tackling HPV. She outlined the existing challenges and proposed strategies to address them. Dr. Azad also introduced the HPV Consortium initiated by ideSHi, elaborating on its roles, responsibilities, and challenges, while inviting other stakeholders to join the initiative.
Dr. Firdausi Qadri then delivered a compelling address on the global burden of HPV, emphasizing ideSHi’s vital role and its dedication to supporting the WHO’s 90-70-90 targets by 2030. She also highlighted the importance of establishing a cancer registry, which is now a mandatory requirement in Bangladesh.
Prof. Dr. Sayeba Akhter, Chairman of BMRC, commended ideSHi’s work during her speech and expressed her strong support for the organization’s initiatives. Prof. Dr. Sheikh Sayidul Haque, Additional Director General (Planning and Development) of DGHS, spoke about the government’s ongoing efforts and the challenges faced in addressing health-related issues across the country.
Prof. Dr. Ashrafunnessa, specialist in Gynecological Oncology, provided an in-depth discussion on the government’s initiatives for cervical cancer screening and preliminary treatment. She also elaborated on the data storage and management procedures related to these efforts.
Dr. Shah Ali Akbar Ashrafi, Director of MIS, shared insights into their ongoing initiative for HPV vaccination, highlighting the role of the vaxepi website in supporting this campaign.
Dr. Muhibul Kashem from PATH, Dr. Abul Fazal Md. Shahabuddin Khan, Program Manager (EPI), and Prof. Dr. Saif Ullah Munshi, expert in virology, also contributed to the discussion by addressing key aspects and challenges of the HPV campaign in Bangladesh.
At the conclusion of the session, Prof. Dr. Sayeba Akhter, along with other distinguished guests, officially inaugurated ideSHi’s newly purchased floor. The event marked a significant step forward in strengthening collaboration among key stakeholders in the fight against HPV and cervical cancer in Bangladesh. With insightful discussions, shared commitments, the program highlighted the collective dedication to advancing health research, expanding HPV vaccination efforts, and improving women’s health across the country.
