1 month ago
Young Scholars Lead Leprosy Awareness in Bangladesh
A special programme in Bangladesh is helping young people who have leprosy become leaders in their communities.
These young scholars are learning important skills to help themselves and others.
They are working to reduce stigma and make sure people with leprosy get the support they need.
Five scholars were chosen from many applicants, and they are already making a big difference by raising awareness and advocating for better healthcare and inclusion.
The programme is supported by a UK-based charity called Lepra, and it aims to create a more inclusive society where no one is left behind.
The Sasakawa Leprosy Initiative Young Scholar Programme supports 18-35-year-olds affected by leprosy in Bangladesh's Bogura District.
Five scholars were selected to develop leadership skills, gain financial autonomy, and shape community solutions.
The programme focuses on meaningful participation, ownership, and leadership for scholars.
Scholars will create safe spaces for co-creation, addressing stigma, exclusion, and barriers to healthcare.
Lepra Bangladesh oversees the programme, providing ongoing support and guidance for participants.
- Who
- 18-35-year-olds affected by leprosy in Bangladesh's Bogura District
- What
- A leadership and development programme to empower young scholars
- Where
- Bogura District, Bangladesh
- When
- Ongoing for 2 years
- Why
- To nurture community leaders and reduce stigma associated with leprosy
Community-Led Approach
Traditional Healthcare Systems
Leadership and Autonomy
Community-Led Approach
Empowers affected individuals to lead and shape community solutions.
Traditional Healthcare Systems
Relies on established healthcare professionals for decision-making.
Stigma Reduction
Community-Led Approach
Uses lived experiences to address stigma and promote inclusion.
Traditional Healthcare Systems
May not fully integrate personal experiences into stigma reduction efforts.
Key facts
- Programme Name
- Sasakawa Leprosy Initiative Young Scholar Programme
- Location
- Bogura District, Bangladesh
- Duration
- 2 years
- Target Age Group
- 18-35 years
- Number of Scholars
- 5
- Partner Organization
- Lepra
- Key Focus Areas
- Leadership, financial autonomy, community solutions
Quotes
Jimmy Innes
CEO of Lepra, UK charity
“"Nurturing a community‑led approach to healthcare and holistic support, is a vital step in creating more sustainable and resilient services within endemic areas. The Young Scholar Programme will provide the next generation of community leaders the tools and skills they need to create and grow their own health and support structures and will give people affected greater autonomy in shaping the services they need in the longer‑term."”
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Taslima
Scholar from the programme
“"Let us learn the facts about leprosy, help others become aware of it, and work together to create an inclusive society where no one is left behind."”
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