Photo: BSS

KHULNA, April 21, 2026 (BSS) - A workshop was held today here to inform stakeholders and facilitate implementation of the national menstrual hygiene management strategy, along with its coasted action plan 2025.

The workshop, organized by the Local Government Division with support from UNICEF, took place at the conference room of the Khulna Divisional Commissioner.

Joint Secretary of the Local Government Division Mohammad Saiful Islam Majumdar attended the program as the chief guest.

Addressing the session, he said implementation of the national menstrual hygiene management strategy is an ongoing process and cannot be accomplished by the government alone.

He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts involving government agencies, non-government organizations, development partners, and the public to ensure effective implementation.

The chief guest also noted that the government is considering waiving VAT and taxes on the production and import of sanitary napkins.

He stressed ensuring separate washroom facilities and necessary amenities for women in both public and private institutions, as well as raising awareness among female service recipients about menstrual hygiene management.

The workshop highlighted several recommendations, including increasing awareness through campaigns, establishing dedicated "changing rooms" for girls in all schools, reducing or waiving VAT and taxes on sanitary napkins, and ensuring affordable distribution of the products.

Presided over by Acting Khulna Divisional Commissioner Mohammad Nazmul Haque, the workshop was also addressed by Additional Divisional Commissioner (Revenue) Sifat Mehnaz, Deputy Commissioner Hoore Jannat, UNICEF Khulna Chief Md Kawsar Hossain, among others.

Expert Md Moniruzzaman presented a keynote paper on menstrual hygiene management strategy at the event.