Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), emphasized the importance of ensuring the health and well-being of workers for the sustainable development of the ready-made garment industry.

He urged the government along with NGOs and development partners to come forward with more supports to improve the health and welfare of the garment workers.

Faruque Hassan came up with the call while addressing a workshop titled “Strengthening nutrition services for RMG workers through Workforce Nutrition Alliance” at Hotel Lakeshore in Dhaka on February 13.

Dr. Md. Akhteruzzaman, Additional Secretary at the Health Services Division; Prof. Dr. Mijanur Rahman, Line Director, National Nutrition Services (NNS); Dr. Mofijul Islam Bulbul, Program Manager, NNS; and G.M. Reza Sumon, Project Manager, GAIN also spoke at the event.

In his address, BGMEA President Faruque Hassan highlighted the RMG industry’s commitment to ensuring the safety, health, nutrition, and overall well-being of the nation’s workforce. 

He mentioned the various initiatives undertaken by garment factories for worker’s well-being, including numerous non-wage benefits such as healthcare centers, eye care facilities, day care centers, fair price shops, alongside initiatives for the community, including schools and hospitals. 

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan also outlined the efforts and initiatives led by BGMEA to promote the health and well-being of RMG workers. 

These initiatives include healthcare centers, maternity rights programs, eye care services, and mental health awareness campaigns. 

BGMEA operates eight health centers in Dhaka and Gazipur, along with a hospital in Chattogram, providing free-of-cost health services to garment workers.