The Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP) recently hosted its 28th Advances in Strategic Communication Workshop, a premier annual event that concluded on November 30, 2024. Held at the BCCP Multipurpose Hall in Mirpur-11, Dhaka, the formal opening ceremony was held on November 23, 2024, and during the workshop participants were blended with professionals dedicated to social and behavior change (SBC) communication, equipping them with cutting-edge tools and strategies to foster impactful communication for social development initiatives. A Platform for Transformative Learning Modeled after the renowned Leadership in Strategic Health Communication workshop conducted by JHU.CCP, Baltimore, USA, the event has become a hallmark for professionals seeking advanced expertise in SBC communication. This year’s workshop embraced important social development themes, including public health, gender equality, climate change, mental health, and innovative ICT solutions. Participants explored state-of-the-art methodologies to design and implement communication strategies that address complex social challenges while fostering positive behavioral change. The immersive program featured diverse learning modules on topics such as audience-centered campaign design, advocacy, social mobilization, and strategic leadership. A Platform for Transformative LearningDiverse Participation and Expert Facilitation The workshop drew a distinguished cohort of 15 participants, including psychosocial managers, editorial professionals, program officers, and business development managers from leading organizations such as Community Based Health Care (CBHC) Bangladesh, Bangladesh Health Watch, Brac James P Grant School of Public Health, Concerned Women for Family Development (CWFD), Social Marketing Company (SMC), The Daily Observer and Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP). Under the leadership of Dr. Zeenat Sultana, Program Director and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of BCCP, and with mentorship from Mr. Mohammad Shahjahan, Director & CEO of BCCP, and Mr. A. K. Shafiqur Rahman, Advisor of BCCP, the workshop provided unparalleled guidance. Additionally, a stellar lineup of subject-matter experts enriched the program:
• Hasne Ara Begum , Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Specialist, Consultant, ADB, on Gender Norms and Inclusivity.
• Mehrin Ahmed Mahbub , Senior External Affairs Officer, World Bank, on Communication Campaign Planning Across Diverse Media.
• Dr. Md. Shorif Uddin , Professor at Jahangirnagar University, on Innovative ICT Solutions in Communication Programs.
• Dr. Ahammadul Kabir , National Program Officer, WHO, on Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation.
• Dr. Helal Uddin Ahmed , Professor of Psychiatry, NIMH, on Mental Health and Community Support.
Impact and Takeaways Participants left the workshop equipped with hands-on expertise in SBC principles and a deep understanding of how to craft impactful communication strategies. From designing culturally relevant campaigns to mastering monitoring and evaluation techniques, attendees are now poised to lead transformative initiatives in their respective fields. “The workshop not only enhanced my strategic communication skills but also provided a collaborative platform to exchange ideas and network with professionals across diverse sectors,” remarked a participant. Shaping a Better Tomorrow With its unwavering commitment to building the capacity of social development professionals, BCCP continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of SBC communication. The 28th Advances in Strategic Communication Workshop stands as a testament to the power of knowledge sharing and innovation in driving sustainable, positive change.