DHAKA, Aug 12, 2026 (BSS) - The country's 4,883 adolescent clubs, run by the Department of Women Affairs (DWA), are playing an increasingly important role in developing a skilled, confident, socially responsible and technology-savvy generation amid rapid global changes.

The clubs are providing adolescents with regular training and awareness programmes on life skills, health and nutrition, leadership, cultural activities, sports, debate, digital safety, career planning, social responsibility and gender equality.

Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Yasmeen Parveen told BSS that the clubs are helping adolescents become responsible citizens while equipping them to face emerging challenges in the digital age.

"With the rapid expansion of digital technology, young people have gained new opportunities, but they are also increasingly exposed to cyber risks, misinformation, online addiction and other social challenges," she said.

She said the government is strengthening club activities to develop life skills, leadership, values, digital awareness and self-confidence among adolescents.

Director General of the Department of Women Affairs (Additional Secretary) Shaila Sharmin Zaman told BSS that the 4,883 clubs across the country are more than a social initiative as they provide an important platform for developing the potential of the future generation.

Regular sessions on adolescent health, nutrition, digital security, leadership, sports and social issues are helping participants build confidence and social responsibility and raise awareness about issues such as child marriage, she said.

Officials said adolescence is a crucial stage for shaping personality, values and future aspirations, and proper guidance at this stage can help young people resist drugs, violence, crime, child marriage, sexual harassment and other social ills.

The clubs also provide practical guidance on protecting personal information, responsible online behaviour, digital citizenship and the positive use of social media, encouraging adolescents to use technology for education, skills development and self-improvement.

Sessions on reproductive health, personal hygiene, mental wellbeing, self-defence, self-confidence and self-esteem are also held regularly to help adolescents understand their physical and psychological development in a scientific and confident manner.

The clubs are also contributing to preventing child marriage by promoting legal awareness, encouraging continuation of education, engaging families and coordinating with local administrations.

Awareness programmes against women violence, sexual harassment and discrimination are also conducted at the clubs.

Debates, quizzes, essay writing, painting, recitation, music, drama, science discussions and sports competitions provide adolescents with opportunities to develop creativity, communication skills, teamwork and leadership.

Participation in national and social activities further strengthens their sense of patriotism and civic responsibility, officials said.

They said the programmes have contributed to reducing school dropout tendencies, boosting confidence and fostering positive values and social awareness among participants.

Officials said efforts are underway to extend the Adolescent Club Establishment Project.

With further expansion, more adolescents, particularly those living in remote areas, will be brought under the programme, while greater emphasis will be given to digital skills, vocational training, entrepreneurship, mental wellbeing, science and innovation, and career development.