With financial support from the Proyash and Mind to Heart projects, events were held at national, district, and sub-district levels. The National Leprosy Program (NLP), in collaboration with partner NGOs, also organised activities in Dhaka to spread awareness and encourage social inclusion for individuals affected by leprosy. The objectives of WLD 2025 were to increase public awareness about leprosy, reduce stigma associated with the disease, and promote the rights and dignity of those affected.
Standing Rally: Organised by NLP in Dhaka with 155 participants, including NGO representatives, people affected by leprosy, and government health workers. The rally concluded with a speech by the Director General of Health Services and was covered by print and electronic media.
Seminar: Held at the Cancer Hospital, Mohakhali, with participation from government officials, civil society, and NGOs, including Lepra Bangladesh. Discussions focused on mass awareness campaigns and Active Case-Finding (ACF) strategies. The Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Health Services attended as the chief guest, and NLP presented keynotes on leprosy-related initiatives.
Standing Rallies: Conducted in all 11 districts of Proyash project areas, led by Civil Surgeons and attended by health workers, nurses, and NGO staff.
Seminars: Organised with 135 participants from health offices, hospitals, nursing institutions, NGOs, and the media. Discussions emphasised raising awareness and enhancing ACF strategies to achieve the goal of zero leprosy by 2030.
Message Dissemination: PVC banners were displayed in Civil Surgeon’s offices and district hospitals. Auto rickshaws with loud speakers spread messages throughout district towns.
Active Case Search: Campaigns in 15 sub-districts led to the identification of 30 new leprosy cases, supported by community volunteers and medical officers.
Community Rally and Awareness Campaign: Held in Dashgram village, Bogura, involving 100 participants, including local government representatives and journalists. The event aimed at social inclusion and awareness.
World Leprosy Day 2025 was observed successfully through multi-stakeholder engagement, despite the pending approval of the NLP operational plan and budget. The activities promoted awareness, dispelled myths, and encouraged proactive public health measures, fostering a compassionate and informed community.
