A symposium on ‘Communication for Development (C4D)’ was held at the Senate Building in Rajshahi University (RU) on Sunday aimed at disseminating ideas on the issue among all concerned. RU’s Institute of Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) hosted the symposium.
RU Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Abdus Sobhan addressed the symposium as chief guest while Pro VC Professor Ananda Kumar Shaha, Divisional Director of UNICEF Nazibullah Hameem and Additional Director of University Grants Commission Jaminur Rahman spoke as special guests. IQAC Director Professor Abu Bakar Ismail was in the chair.
During his keynote presentation, Emeritus Professor David Mold from Ohio State University in the USA illustrated the aspects of C4D.
Professor Abdus Sobhan said the audience that C4D focuses, involves understanding people, their beliefs and values, the social and cultural norms that shape their lives.
Professor David said communication for development is seen as a two-way process for sharing ideas and knowledge using a range of communication tools and approaches that empower individuals and communities to take actions to improve their lives.
Nazibullah Hameem said UNICEF has a strong track record of amplifying the voices of children and communities by harnessing the power of communication to promote child survival, development, protection and participation.
Successful case studies range from polio immunization, curbing maternal mortality, delaying child marriage for girls and use of ITCs for development, he added.
In UNICEF, C4D is defined as a systematic, planned and evidence-based strategic process to promote positive and measurable individual behaviour and social change that is an integral part of development programmes, policy advocacy and humanitarian work.
