UNOPS Bangladesh marks International Women’s Day with with young leaders

UNOPS Bangladesh marked International Women’s Day 2026 by hosting an event with students of Holy Cross Girls’ School and College in the capital, bringing together young girls, diplomats, government representatives and development partners.

Held under the Accelerate SDG Localization Project, the programme reflected the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls” and placed adolescent girls at the centre of discussions on gender equality, leadership and civic engagement.

Spanish Ambassador to Bangladesh Gabriel Sistiaga attended the school session as the chief guest.

UNOPS Bangladesh and Bhutan Country Manager Sudhir Muralidharan and UN Women Bangladesh Deputy Representative Navanita Sinha delivered special remarks, highlighting the importance of empowering young women and girls as future leaders.

Advocate Peya Jannatul, a lawyer at the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, presented the keynote speech, sharing insights on women’s rights, justice and the importance of leadership and resilience among young women.

During the college session, Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Nasreen Jahan attended as the chief guest, while Maldives High Commissioner to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed joined as the special guest.

In his remarks, Sudhir Muralidharan stressed the importance of engaging young women in discussions on rights and leadership, saying empowering girls with knowledge, confidence and opportunities is essential for building inclusive and equitable societies.

The event also featured student performances, interactive discussions and reflections, allowing participants to share their views on rights, justice and gender equality.

Through the Accelerate SDG Localization Project, UNOPS Bangladesh works to bring the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) closer to communities by promoting locally driven initiatives and encouraging young people to contribute to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).

UNOPS Bangladesh reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that empower women and girls and promote inclusive and sustainable development in the country.