GAIN launches SUN Youth Network to tackle malnutrition in Bangladesh

The Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Youth Network, a youth-led initiative to transform food systems and promote safe, nutritious foods, was launched in Dhaka on Sunday.

The network aims to empower young people with skills to combat malnutrition and raise awareness about nutrition across Bangladesh, including in educational institutions, reads a press release.

The launch ceremony, held at a hotel in Gulshan, was organised by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), which serves as the network's secretariat under the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in coordination with other ministries and networks.

The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to address malnutrition and promote healthy diets.

Highlighting the network's goals, Mehedi Hasan Bappy, SUN Youth Network Bangladesh's focal point and project coordinator at GAIN, said, "The network aims to empower youth and adolescents with knowledge and skills on food systems and nutrition in 40 districts, including Dhaka, Chattogram, and Khulna."

Trained members will educate other youths and implement community-level actions to improve nutrition awareness.

Network members will also advocate for policy changes and collaborate with businesses to ensure access to safe and nutritious foods, which are critical for health and well-being.

Chief guest Md Saidur Rahman, secretary of the Health Services Division, stressed the importance of coordination among ministries to combat malnutrition.

"We must raise awareness about unhealthy foods and drinks," he said, calling for collaborative efforts to ensure access to healthy food nationwide.

Additional Secretary Sheikh Momena Moni chaired the event, which featured speeches by Md Rezaul Maksud Jahedi, secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and Dr Rudaba Khondker, country director of GAIN, among others. 

Rudaba stressed the need for collective action to ensure the success of campaigns promoting safe foods and nutrition.

Md Rezaul Maksud Jahedi urged leveraging youth innovation to encourage healthier eating habits, noting the prevalence of chronic malnutrition in Bangladesh and the need for policy reforms.

Bangladesh faces significant challenges related to malnutrition. According to the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) 2022, stunting affects 24% of children in rural areas, 22% in urban areas, and 24% nationally.

Underweight prevalence stands at 22.8% in rural areas, 21% in urban areas, and 22% overall.

The SUN Youth Network seeks to address these challenges by engaging young people in campaigns and community actions to create lasting changes in nutrition and food systems.