Bloodman, the first digital blood donation organization in the country, in partnership with Facebook and ICT Division, is offering free training to utilize the Facebook blood donation feature.

The training will cover how blood banks can connect with donors through the social media platform, based on their needs, said a press release.

Md Sahariar Hasan Jiisun, founding chairman, Bloodman Bangladesh, said “It’s still a struggle for people to get access to safe blood.”

“I urge everyone to do their part in closing the blood shortage gap, by donating blood at a blood bank closest to you,” he added.

He also said that Facebook has made finding blood donors easier, including donors for platelets for dengue patients and plasma for C-19 patients.

State Minister, ICT Division, Zunaid Ahmed Palak, said "The blood donation feature on Facebook is one of the fastest and easiest ways to let donors know of critical blood needs in areas outside of Dhaka.”

“I strongly encourage everyone to take part by signing up to be a donor on Facebook or encourage someone to donate on your behalf to ensure that everyone, everywhere can access safe blood," he added.

Shelley Thakral, Head of Policy Programs, South and Central Asia at Facebook, said:

“We’re committed to bringing people and communities together through our platform. Stay up-to-date about local blood needs, learn about safe ways to donate blood in your community and inspire others to give back by giving blood.”

Since Facebook launched its Blood Donations feature two years ago, over 70 million people globally have signed up as voluntary blood donors. In Bangladesh alone, over eight million people have done so, till date.