Around 38,000 people live in the hard‑to‑reach chars of Kurigram district, where access to medical services is extremely limited. Pregnant women often give birth at home with untrained help, putting both mother and child at serious risk. Lack of timely care means that otherwise treatable conditions can become life‑threatening.

Purpose of the ‘Shushastho’ Centre

Under the CHARMS project and in partnership with the Ministry of Health, BRAC has received three years of funding from the Philips Foundation to provide 24/7, technology‑enabled primary healthcare across 15 char areas in Kurigram. This initiative aims to make quality health services easily accessible to over 38,000 residents.

Inauguration Ceremony

On Monday, 21 April, the ‘Shushastho’ centre in Char Narayanpur was officially inaugurated by Civil Surgeon Dr. Swapan Kumar Biswas. The ceremony was attended by representatives of local government, health workers, BRAC leadership, and residents of the char.

Remarks by Local Doctors and BRAC Leaders

• Dr. Swapan Kumar Biswas noted that although there are four government clinics in Narayanpur Union, they do not provide regular delivery services; BRAC’s new centre will bring a significant change.
• Dr. Imran Ahmed Chowdhury (BRAC Health Programme) emphasized that by combining technology and innovation, gaps in healthcare can be filled and resources used optimally.
• Also present were Dr. A. N. M. Golam Mohi Uddin (Deputy Civil Surgeon), Dr. Sujan Saha (Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer), Dr. Md. Atiur Rahman (WHO Medical Officer), and Mr. Mostafizur Rahman Mostafa (Chairman, Narayanpur Union Parishad No. 12).

Services Provided

• 24/7 Emergency Care: Trained midwives and medical assistants will ensure safe deliveries.
• NCD Screening & Immunization: Routine checks for non‑communicable diseases and vaccination services.
• Telemedicine Consultations: Remote specialist advice via digital platforms.
• Antenatal & Postnatal Home Visits: CHARMS‑trained community health workers conduct home visits for care and awareness activities.
• Community Engagement: Collaboration with local institutions and leaders to change traditional mindsets and encourage facility‑based deliveries.

Project Goals

• Reduce maternal and under‑five mortality rates
• Increase vaccination coverage
• Establish resilient, self‑reliant health management in disaster‑ and climate‑vulnerable areas
• Gather evidence to replicate this model in other rural or remote parts of the country