The 'Durbar Konnya Programme Model' - an innovative initiative designed to strengthen the leadership, agency and climate resilience of adolescent girls and young women in climate-vulnerable communities across the country - has been officially launched.
Developed in alignment with Bangladesh's National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023-2050, the model seeks to empower adolescent girls and young women to become active leaders in climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and community resilience-building efforts.
Plan International Bangladesh officially launched it at a ceremony in the city on Thursday in presence of senior government officials, development partners, diplomats, representatives of UN agencies, civil society organisations, youth leaders, and media representatives.
State Minister for Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam attended the ceremony as the chief guest.
Secretary of Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief Md Saidur Rahman Khan, Ambassador of Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen, and First Secretary and Deputy Head of Development Cooperation of German Embassy Jannis Hussain were present as the special guests.
According to a press release, the 'Durbar Konnya Programme Model' adopts a holistic approach that integrates climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, leadership development, health and rights awareness, digital skills, and economic empowerment.
The initiative also aims to strengthen links between adolescent girls and existing local governance and disaster management structures, enabling them to participate more effectively in planning, preparedness and decision-making processes. It would enable them to lead community awareness, support local disaster preparedness, and amplify the voices of young women in climate-related decision-making.
smunima@yahoo.com