Webinar on Women’s Health

The Master in Development Studies (MDS) and Master of Public Health (MPH) Programs, in collaboration with the Department of Economics and the Department of Public Health, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), and the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB), successfully organized an academic webinar titled “Women’s Health & Menopause: Challenges and Opportunities” on 2 November 2026. The webinar brought together students and faculty members, providing an engaging platform for academic discussion and knowledge exchange on women's health, menopause, and related public health and development issues.

Dr. Sharika Anjum, MBBS, BSc (Hons), PGCert, MRCGP, NHS General Practitioner and Women's Health Clinician in the United Kingdom, served as the distinguished resource person. Drawing on her clinical experience with the UK National Health Service (NHS) and insights from research in Bangladesh, she discussed the biological and health-related aspects of menopause, common challenges experienced by women, and the importance of appropriate healthcare support. She also highlighted how cultural perceptions, social attitudes, stigma, and barriers to healthcare access influence women's experiences of menopause.

The discussion further explored menopause as a broader public health and development concern, emphasizing the importance of awareness, health education, workplace support, and gender equality. Dr. Anjum highlighted the role of healthcare professionals, families, communities, and policymakers in creating a supportive environment where women can navigate menopause with greater understanding, dignity, and access to appropriate care.

The webinar was also attended by Dr. Faria Sultana, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), and Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Economics, along with Dr. Sabuktagin Rahman, Senior Associate Professor and Head, Department of Public Health. Their presence added to the academic significance of the session and reflected the university's commitment to promoting interdisciplinary dialogue on important women's health and development issues.

The webinar concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, allowing participants to engage with the resource person and share their perspectives on women's health, menopause, healthcare access, and social support. The discussion enriched participants' understanding of menopause beyond its clinical dimensions and highlighted the need for greater awareness, inclusive healthcare services, and supportive policies to improve women's health and well-being.