Govt committed to restoring normal lives for children with cleft lip, palate: ICT Minister
Staff Correspondent
Minister for Posts, Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Science and Technology Fakir Mahboob Anam on Friday affirmed that the government is fully committed to ensuring the treatment and social rehabilitation of children born with cleft lips and palates.
He made the statements as the chief guest at a discussion and gathering organized at the Shilpakala Academy in the capital to mark World Smile Day 2026. The event was jointly organized by the New Life Hospital Cleft Project and the Child Health Awareness Foundation with support from international charity Smile Train America, bringing together children who successfully underwent corrective surgeries.
"A child's smile brings joy to their family and society. A healthy and happy child will shape a prosperous nation. Ensuring health, safety, and a bright future for our children is our national responsibility," the minister said.
Highlighting the role of technology in healthcare, Fakir Mahboob Anam noted that digital platforms, health apps, and telemedicine are increasingly enabling children in remote areas to access specialist medical advice. He praised Dr. Bijoy Das and his medical team for their humanitarian efforts in performing corrective surgeries, urging affluent individuals, private entities, and civil society to support such public welfare initiatives.
Member of Parliament for Habiganj-1 Dr. Sakhawat Hasan Jiban, Additional Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), and Smile Train Program Director for Bangladesh and Nepal A.B.M. Mobassher Hossain spoke as special guests, emphasizing the expansion of free surgical programs and public awareness.
Presided over by Professor Dr. Bijoy Krishna Das, General Secretary and Executive Head of the Child Health Awareness Foundation, the event was also addressed by Foundation President Professor Dr. Shamim Ara Khan Chowdhury, World Smile Day 2026 Celebration Committee Member Secretary Dr. Aslamul Islam Rudra, and New Life Hospital Managing Director and CEO Md. Asaduzzaman.
Gift packages were distributed among rehabilitated children and their parents during the event.
