Government representatives, development partners, youth leaders, community members and implementing partners came together on Thursday to celebrate the successful completion of the Child, Not Bride (CNB) Project, marking four years of collective efforts to prevent child, early and forced marriage (CEFM) and advance girls' rights in Kurigram.
Organised by Plan International Bangladesh, the closing event showcased the project’s achievements, recognised the contributions of youths and local stakeholders, and created a platform to reflect on lessons learned and the way forward.
Funded by the Norwegian State Broadcast Corporation (NRK Telethon) and implemented by Plan International Bangladesh in partnership with RDRS Bangladesh and MJSKS, the four-year initiative has worked across 76 unions and municipalities in nine upazilas of Kurigram, empowering girls and young people through youth leadership, economic empowerment and improved access to reproductive health and rights.
Speaking at the event as the Chief Guest Md. Nazir Hossain, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Kurigram, said: “The achievements celebrated today demonstrate what is possible when government institutions, communities, development partners and youths work together towards a common goal. As we celebrate the successes of the Child, Not Bride Project, we must also renew our commitment to ensuring every girl can grow up free from child marriage, complete her education and realise her full potential.”
The event was chaired by Mathilda Mendes, Project Manager, Plan International Bangladesh.
Throughout the event, participants reflected on how the project has strengthened community action to prevent child marriage while creating opportunities for adolescents and youths to realise their rights and reach their full potential.
Over the course of the project, 76 youth organisations were strengthened, with 73 organisations successfully registered under the Department of Youth Development, creating sustainable platforms for youths to lead advocacy and community action against child marriage.
Through youth-led initiatives supported by Flex Funds, youths implemented community awareness campaigns and actively contributed to Child Marriage Prevention Committees across Kurigram.
The project also supported 3,675 young people through 152 Youth Economic Empowerment groups, helping them build sustainable livelihoods and strengthen their financial independence.
In collaboration with the Bangladesh Technical Education Board (BTEB), the project introduced competency standards and market-oriented digital skills training in emerging ICT occupations, preparing youths for the future of work.
In addition, the project established 58 Adolescent Safe Spaces, enabling thousands of adolescents to access information on reproductive health and rights, gender equality, leadership and life skills.
Through peer education and the Girls Out Loud digital platform, girls and young people gained the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their health, education and future.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from government representatives, implementing partners, youth organisations and community leaders to build on the project’s achievements and continue working together to advance girls' rights, gender equality and meaningful youth participation across Kurigram.