BRAC JPGSPH Welcomes New Leaders of the Bangladesh Midwifery Society
On Wednesday, Brac James P Grant School of Public Health (Brac JPGSPH) at Brac University hosted a special ceremony to welcome the newly elected members of the Bangladesh Midwifery Society (BMS) for the 2025 committee. This event highlighted the importance of midwifery in enhancing maternal and newborn health across Bangladesh.
The Role of Bangladesh Midwifery Society in Healthcare
The Bangladesh Midwifery Society (BMS) serves as the national professional body for midwives, dedicated to improving midwifery leadership and professional standards. BMS works tirelessly to advance safe, evidence-based maternal and newborn care, recognizing the critical role midwives play in the health care system of Bangladesh.
Newly Elected BMS Committee Members
The 2025 National Executive Committee of BMS comprises dedicated professionals who will steer the organization towards achieving its goals. The newly elected members are:
- Rujina Khatun (President)
- Afsana Akther (Vice-President)
- Hasna Akter (General Secretary)
- Bokul Akter Liza (Education Secretary)
- Sangita Saha Prema (Treasurer)
- Rima Akter (Executive Member)
- Aysha Begum (Executive Member)
- Taslima Akther (Executive Member)
Insights from Brac JPGSPH Leaders
During the ceremony, Dr. Sharmina Rahman, the director and head of the Midwifery Education Program at Brac JPGSPH, expressed her congratulations and emphasized the importance of the new committee. She stated, “Your election reflects the trust and expectations of midwives across the country.” Dr. Rahman underscored that BMS has the potential to make significant strides in maternal and newborn health by promoting evidence-based practices and enhancing collaboration.
The Impact of Midwifery on Health Outcomes
According to Dr. Rahman, BMS can save between 11,000 and 31,000 lives by expanding midwifery-led care across the nation. She highlighted that effective education, equitable deployment, and safe working conditions for midwives are vital for improving healthcare in Bangladesh.
Khoma Rani Baroi, the deputy director (Midwifery) from the Directorate General of Nursing and Midwifery (DGNM), praised the leaders and acknowledged the growing influence of midwives in healthcare. She noted that midwives are actively fostering patient demand and enhancing maternal and newborn health.
Global Perspectives on Midwifery
Rawshan Ara, the national midwifery officer from UNFPA, commended the leadership of midwives in Bangladesh and advocated for the expansion of midwifery roles. She recognized Brac University’s efforts in developing robust midwifery leaders.
In addition, Samia Afrin, the chief election commissioner of the BMS Election 2025, reflected on the transparent electoral process, highlighting midwives as frontline professionals in maternal health. Afrin encouraged continued advocacy for stronger leadership and representation within the midwifery community.
Vision for the Future
BMS President Rujina Khatun shared her aspirations for the new committee, focusing on enhancing midwifery-led services and establishing dedicated care centers. She emphasized the importance of post-basic midwifery programs for professional growth and career advancement.
Dr. Laura Reichenbach, the Dean of Brac JPGSPH, reiterated Brac University’s commitment to midwifery education and leadership. She expressed pride in the school’s role in training midwives since 2013, contributing to a stronger workforce and improved maternal health outcomes.
Conclusion
The newly elected leadership of the Bangladesh Midwifery Society stands at the forefront of advancing midwifery in the country. With a focus on education, collaboration, and evidence-based practice, BMS aims to foster an environment where midwives can thrive and deliver high-quality care. The partnership between Brac JPGSPH and BMS signals a promising future for maternal and newborn health in Bangladesh.
For further information on maternal health initiatives in Bangladesh, consider visiting UNFPA and Brac University, which are instrumental in promoting midwifery and enhancing healthcare standards.
