Campaign for Popular Education (CAMPE), in collaboration with the BRAC Institute of Educational Development (BRAC-IED), hosted a national consultation titled “Mental Health of Students at the Primary Level: Our Actions”. The event took place at the Media Bazaar Auditorium, Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC), Dhaka.

This consultation served as an occasion to share grassroots findings from meetings, opinion surveys, and analyses concerning the mental health of primary school students. Participants were invited to provide feedback and contribute to developing actionable policy recommendations to address mental health challenges among students and teachers.

The event brought Professor Dr. Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar, Honorable Advisor to the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education (MoPME) of the Interim Government, as the Chief Guest. The distinguished panel included Dr. Muhammad Musa, Senior Advisor, BRAC-IED; Professor M. Nazmul Haque, Director, Teacher Development Institute; and Dr. Ahmed Mushtaque Raza Chowdhury, Convener, Education Watch. Two primary school students also participated, offering their unique perspectives. The session was moderated by Rasheda K. Choudhury, Executive Director of CAMPE.

The panelists explored the mental health challenges faced by primary school students, addressing issues such as trauma, social and economic pressures, and lack of support systems. They emphasized the need for holistic approaches involving government, schools, and communities to create supportive environments and enhance mental health services.

The consultation produced a comprehensive set of recommendations, including:

• Enhancing communication between guardians, students, and schools.
• Preventing mobile addiction, particularly exposure to violent games and content.
• Promoting special activities to support child health and well-being.
• Raising awareness about mental health among students and communities.
• Addressing social and economic factors affecting students' mental health.
• Creating joyful and supportive school environments to reduce stress and depression.
• Introducing mid-day meal programs to improve nutrition and overall health.
• Keeping schools free from party politics to maintain a neutral learning environment.
• Establishing counseling facilities in schools and training of teachers on mental health.
• Including mental health topics in the curriculum and ensuring stability in educational policies.
• Increasing fund and resources for mental health services in schools.
• Encouraging outdoor activities through accessible school playgrounds.

Approximately 185 attendees, including CAMPE’s partner organizations, development experts, media personnel, students, guardians, and teachers, participated in the event. This consultation highlighted the shared commitment of various stakeholders to address the mental health needs of primary school students in Bangladesh. This collaborative initiative marks a critical step towards fostering mental well-being and ensuring a healthier, supportive educational environment for children.