DINAJPUR, 22 March 2025 (BSS) – A compelling theatrical performance was staged in Birganj Upazila of Dinajpur district to raise awareness and prevent child marriage and violence against children.
The one-and-a-half-hour drama was presented at 9:30 pm on Friday, under the initiative of Impact Plus Children of Mohanpur Union, Birganj Upazila. The Barhat Bakul Group performed the play in Matiakura village, in collaboration with World Vision Bangladesh AP.
Community Engagement and Awareness
World Vision Bangladesh Birganj AP Programme Officer, Shyamala Shanti Koraiya, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Nazrul Islam, President of the Matiakura Village Development Committee, presided over the event.
Shyamala Shanti Koraiya remarked, “We declared Matiakura village free from child marriage in 2023. World Vision is continuously working to expand this initiative, aiming to declare all villages across 11 unions and one municipality in Birganj Upazila child marriage-free by 2025.”
However, she emphasised that mere declarations were insufficient. “To eradicate child marriage, awareness and collective action are essential. Parents must prioritise their children’s education instead of early marriage.”
She urged the audience to adopt the slogan: “My village, my responsibility – let every child live free from child marriage.”
Key Attendees
The event witnessed a strong turnout, including community leaders, religious figures, students, and local residents who gathered to support the cause. Among the prominent attendees were:
| Name | Designation |
|---|---|
| Ganesh Chandra Roy | President, Borahat Village Development Committee |
| Shafiqul Islam | President, Tulshipur Village Development Committee |
| Razzak Islam | President, Chak-Mahadevpur Village Development Committee |
| Jiten Chanda | President, Kashipur Village Development Committee |
| Saiful Islam | President, Miratungi Village Development Committee |
| Abdul Latif | President, Krishnanagar Village Development Committee |
| Abdul Wahed | President, Mohanpur Village Development Committee |
| Laili Begum | Women’s Leader, Mohanpur |
Supplementary Information
Child marriage remains a pressing social issue in Bangladesh, with reports indicating that nearly 51% of girls are married before the age of 18. Such marriages often lead to health complications, disrupted education, and economic hardships.
According to UNICEF, regions with community-led interventions have witnessed a 30% reduction in child marriages over the past decade. Awareness campaigns such as street theatre and community dramas have proven effective in shifting societal attitudes and encouraging policy implementation.
Looking Ahead
The drama performance in Birganj signifies a crucial step in the fight against child marriage. By fostering dialogue and community participation, it is hoped that more villages will follow suit in ensuring a safer and brighter future for the next generation. The initiative will continue its outreach efforts, reinforcing the message that education, empowerment, and social unity are key to eradicating child marriage permanently.