By Tohura Khatun Lily from Rajshahi
A discussion meeting titled “Climate-Sensitive Adolescent Health: Addressing the Challenges” was held recently in Baje Kazla, a suburban area of Rajshahi, focusing on how climate change is creating new risks for adolescent girls and possible measures to address them.
A total of 28 participants including adolescent girls, their parents, community members, and women leaders participated in the event. The session was facilitated by BARCIK’s Research and Policy Advocacy Officer, Amreen Binte Azad, along with Community Facilitator Tohura Khatun Lily.
Speakers highlighted the multifaceted impacts of climate change on adolescent girls’ health, safety, and education. They stated that rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, pollution, unsafe water, and seasonal diseases are having a direct impact on adolescent health. Challenges such as menstrual hygiene management, malnutrition, mental stress, and the risk associated with traveling to school are becoming more severe.
Participants emphasized the need for adolescent-friendly awareness programs, menstrual hygiene education, safe water and sanitation, improved access to nutritious food, school-based health services, and community action to ensure a safe environment.
Community representatives acknowledged the importance of stronger family and social responsibility in protecting adolescent health. They added that such engagements help raise awareness and encourage collective action.
At the end of the session, participants expressed a shared commitment to work together to address the impacts of climate change on adolescent girls’ health.
