SMC participated in the second conference of International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease in South East Asia Region (SEAR 2014), which was organized by National Anti-Tuberculosis Association of Bangladesh (NATAB) during 9 to 12 March, 2014 in Dhaka. The theme of the conference was “TB in 2050: Challenge to humanity.”

The Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease was formed with a belief at its core that exchanging knowledge is essential to creating solutions for the public health challenges that we face. The conference provided an excellent opportunity for all, who participated from various countries of South East Asia, to share scientific, educational, informational and training advancements and achievements that have taken place in addressing public health issues.

Mr. Toslim Uddin Khan, GM, Program at SMC chaired a session tilted “Community Involvement” along with Mr. Mozaffar Hossain Paltu, Chairperson, The Union, South East Asia Region. Speakers from India and from Bangladesh shared their activities and experiences in respective countries. Dr. A Z M Zahidur Rahman, Head of BCC, SMC made a presentation on “SMC TB Program: Making the bridge”, which highlighted the innovations that SMC introduced in implementing relevant community-based activities. One such innovative approach of SMC in addressing hard-to-reach population with “Floating IEC Center” generated huge interest among the audience.

Additionally, on March 24, 2014 SMC-Modhumita and Natun Din program observed World TB Day across Bangladesh in close collaboration with the government and NGO partners.