“Adolescents feel shy to share sexual and reproductive issues with their parents and teachers. On the other hand, our guardians are not conscious in this regard too. Our mentality should be changed,” said the minister.
Dr Dipu Moni came up with the remarks at a webinar on “Adolescents right to sexual and reproductive health in the current situation.”
Also read: Over 90pc adolescents using mobile phones in Bangladesh: Survey
Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF), a non-government and non-profit organisation, organised the virtual event marking the World Women’s Day to be observed on March 8.
“Counseling will be started at schools to this end in a short time,” the minister also added.
Also read: Internet, mobile phones enhance adolescents’ voice: Survey
MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam said the current state of health care for adolescents at the community level is very poor.
“We don’t talk to teenagers seriously about the important matter. Health, nutrition and population education at school level are not sufficient,” she also said.
Also read: Inactivity puts health of adolescents worldwide at risk: WHO
Shaheen Anam added that the absence of service providers is noticeable at the community level health care centers for adolescents.
Adolescents have no clear idea or are not informed about the services of the adolescent-friendly service centers and there is also lack of privacy when they come to adolescent health care centers.