Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Sept 10, 2026 (BSS) - Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain today said the government is working to bring the suicide rate down to zero.

“Preventing suicide requires more than government initiatives . . . We need to build a social movement involving people from all sections of society,” he said while addressing a seminar as the chief guest marking ‘World Suicide Prevention Day’, organized by the Association for Disabled People (ADP) and Rotary Club Ahsan Manzil at University Women’s Federation College in Dhanmondi here today.

Calling on students across the country to say ‘No’ to suicide, the minister said, “No matter how difficult a situation may be, we must continue to fight against the challenges of life.”

Noting that failure is a part of life, he said, “We should not lose hope when we fail. Instead, we must keep trying to achieve success. Through continuous effort, people can ultimately reach the heights of progress.”

The health minister also stressed the importance of family support in preventing suicide.

He said besides saying ‘No’ to suicide, everyone should be responsible towards their parents and other family members and share their problems and feelings through open communication, which can also help them cope with mental stress and despair.

Emphasizing the need for greater social awareness, Sakhawat said positive thinking, mutual empathy and awareness beyond conventional ideas can help build a strong social movement against suicide.

Director General of the Directorate General of Health Education Dr Nazmul Hossain also spoke at the seminar, chaired by ADP Chairman Rowshan Ara Jaman. University Women’s Federation College Principal Afroza Sharmin delivered the vote of thanks.