Since its establishment on February 6, 2005, the Center for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB) has played a leading role in public health development and overall well-being of the people.
To celebrate its achievements over the past two decades, CIPRB organized a celebration at a convention center in Dhaka on February 6, 2025, with the presence of those who have been instrumental in guiding, advising, and supporting its journey.
Although the institution began its research activities with the goal of injury prevention, over the last two decades, it has made unprecedented contributions to various public health issues such as maternal and child health, nutrition, mental health, and the prevention of infectious and non-communicable diseases, according to a statement.
The organization has gained recognition both nationally and internationally as a reliable public health research institution, publishing 219 research papers in international journals. It has also played a significant role in creating 10 national health policies, guidelines, and strategies.
Additionally, CIPRB’s researchers have made important contributions to water drowning prevention, with their data being referenced in two separate resolutions by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations.
The chief guest at the event was National Professor AK Azad Khan, President of the Bangladesh Diabetes Association (BADA), said, “With the combined efforts of over 6,000 dedicated professionals, including researchers, field workers, and volunteers, CIPRB has actively contributed to the national health strategy, empowering and training local communities. Through mutual partnerships and knowledge exchange, its continuous efforts have strengthened its position in advancing global health and well-being.”
Dr. Vibhavendra Singh Raghuvanshi, Chief of Health at UNFPA Bangladesh, attended as a special guest and stated, “UNFPA is a proud partner in CIPRB’s various public welfare research projects. Through these 20 years, millions of lives have been saved, ensuring a better quality of life. CIPRB has worked in remote areas of society, addressing social taboos related to reproductive health, mental health, and other issues, which have been internationally recognized.”
Also present were Dr. Rajesh Nawal, Deputy WHO Representative in Bangladesh, who emphasized the need for a ‘National Health Research System’ to modernize the health sector. He stated that at least 2% of the total health sector budget should be allocated for health research, and a National Health Research Strategy should be developed to implement programs based on people's needs.
Professor Dr. Sayeba Akter, Chairperson of BMRC and Member of the Health Sector Reform Commission, highlighted that CIPRB has conducted valuable research on various neglected public health issues and has contributed significantly to the national policy-making process, particularly in reducing fistulas and maternal mortality in remote and disadvantaged communities.
In his welcome speech, Professor Dr. Mohammad Mazharul Haque, President of CIPRB's Board of Directors, noted the organization's significant contributions over the past 20 years, particularly in child injury and drowning prevention, as well as its active role in national and international research on road accidents.
He mentioned that 17 researchers associated with CIPRB have earned their PhD degrees, and the organization has served over 5 million people and trained nearly 60,000 individuals.
Executive Director of CIPRB, Professor Dr. EKM Fazlur Rahman, presented the organization’s 20-year achievements and expressed gratitude to various national and international partners, research institutions, government agencies, and media for their support.
During the event, Dr. Aminur Rahman, Deputy Executive Director, presented a paper on the interplay between injuries, health, and climate change. This was followed by a panel discussion led by Professor Dr. Abul Faiz, Professor of Medicine and former Director General of the Health Directorate.
Panelists, including Dr. Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman from ICDDR,B and Professor Mohammad Ziaul Islam from NIPSOM, discussed the complex impacts of climate change on public health and emphasized the need for coordinated efforts, new initiatives, and community involvement to tackle these challenges.
Dr. AM Zakir Hossain, Chairman of the Community Clinic Health Assistance Trust, and Dr. Selim Mahmud Chowdhury, Director of Health System Research Division, provided expert opinions.
The concluding remarks were given by Dr. Mahmud Chowdhury, who expressed hope that the recommendations from the event would guide CIPRB's future progress. He thanked all contributors and closed the event.
