Children with Down syndrome can thrive like any other, with small but sincere efforts from society, said a senior government official on Tuesday, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive development.
The remarks came during a vibrant celebration of Down Syndrome Awareness Month at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, organized by the Down Syndrome Society of Bangladesh (DSSB).
Held at the National Art Gallery Auditorium, the event featured a seminar and a lively cultural performance showcasing the talents of children and youth with Down syndrome.
Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed, director general of the Shilpakala Academy, chaired the seminar and praised the performers for their moving contributions.
“Their songs and dances deeply moved me,” he said.
“Watching them, I never felt they were any different from other children. If we approach them with compassion and love, they too can help build a better society.”
Md Abu Yusuf, secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare, attended as chief guest.
In his address, he emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive environment for children with Down syndrome.
“Our support for these children and their families will continue,” he said.
“We must ensure that everyone in society can grow equally. A concerning trend has emerged where many parents isolate their children, which hampers mental development. Children should grow up in a free and inclusive environment.”
In his welcome speech, DSSB Chairman Sardar A Razzak called for coordinated efforts to ensure equal opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome.
Speakers at the seminar urged both government and private institutions to take visible, practical steps to improve quality of life and social inclusion, including employment opportunities tailored to individual abilities.
The event was attended by representatives from Japan Bangladesh Friendship Hospital, SWID Bangladesh, Tori Foundation, BGMEA, Team Group BD, and Professor Dr Sardar A Naeem.
A colorful cultural performance by over 80 children from eight special education schools in Dhaka, presented by the Dance Celebrity Group, was the highlight of the day.
Md Shahadat Hossain, Founder of Route to Root, and Uttam Hawlader, Executive Director of DSSB, delivered the vote of thanks.
The program was conducted by Ahmad Ibn Saleh, Program Officer and Self-Advocacy Lead at DSSB.
Speakers and participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to building an inclusive society, one where every individual, regardless of ability, can grow, create, and contribute with dignity and joy.
