Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, June 30, 2026 (BSS) - Speakers at a dissemination session here today underscored the importance of localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to strengthen grassroots women's leadership, promote gender equality and ensure inclusive and accountable governance.

They said active participation of local institutions, public representatives, teachers, students, parents, development partners and the general public is essential to achieve the SDGs, while greater involvement of women and youth in decision-making would help build a more inclusive and effective society.

The observations came at the 'SDG Model Dissemination Session on SDG 5 and SDG 16' held at the Grand River View Hotel in the city.

The event, jointly organized by UNOPS Bangladesh and UN Women, was held under the Joint SDG Fund-supported project titled 'Strengthening Women's Political Leadership through Localization of SDG 5 and SDG 16 in Bangladesh'.

Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner Kazi Shahidul Islam addressed the programme as the chief guest, saying women constitute half of the country's population and sustainable development cannot be achieved without their active participation.

He stressed the need to create leadership opportunities for school and madrasa girls, saying today's students would become tomorrow's leaders in families, communities, institutions and the state.

The deputy commissioner said building girls' self-confidence, civic responsibility, awareness of rights and decision-making skills from an early age is essential.

Referring to SDG 5 and SDG 16, he said gender equality, women's empowerment and inclusive governance were closely interconnected, adding that inclusive governance could not be established unless women had equal opportunities to receive education, express their opinions and assume leadership roles in a safe environment.

Speaking as a special guest, Rajshahi Superintendent of Police Naimul Hasan said women's leadership and civic participation were vital to building a peaceful and inclusive society.

He said coordinated efforts by government agencies, development partners and local communities would help create a safe and enabling environment for women.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Tuktuk Talukdar, Rajshahi River View Collectorate School Head Teacher Monowara Parvin, Rajshahi Government Girls' High School Head Teacher Izabela Sattar, Lakshmipur Girls' High School Head Teacher Irene Zafar and other local stakeholders also spoke.

UNOPS Bangladesh Project Manager Shirin Sultana said the initiative is supporting locally led solutions to strengthen women's leadership and enhance the capacity of local institutions.

She said mentorship opportunities and inclusive dialogue would help create sustainable pathways to achieving SDG 5 and SDG 16.