BUHS and MCN raise awareness for Down syndrome
“Step Towards Acceptance’’ took place at Brac University’s auditorium on November 9th. The educational seminar was organized by Millennium Campus Network (MCN) in collaboration with Brac University Health and Safety Club (BUHS) . It brought together faculty members, students, and representatives from Parents Forum for Differently Abled (PFDA) and Down Syndrome Society, Bangladesh. PFDA is a vocational training organization dedicated to skill development and employment for individuals with Down syndrome. The event featured cultural performances by PFDA students with Down syndrome, showcasing their remarkable talents.
The event started with Faria Siddique (Senior, MNS) welcoming everyone and emphasizing that “everyone should be seen.” She is a Millennium Fellow who was the main organizer of the event. Dr. Kazi Saminur Rahman (Outdoor Medical Officer, Monowara Medical) engaged the audience with a powerful exercise, writing their names using their non-dominant hand in 60 seconds. “This is how people with Down syndrome struggle with everyday tasks,” he explained.
Dr. Rahman explained that Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal disability, affecting one in 700 people due to an extra chromosome. Individuals typically having IQs between 50 and 70 often face cardiac issues. He pointed out that the real problems aren’t medical, they are social. “We don’t see them in many functions or institutions. The problem is the stigma we have created,” he said.
Mushfiqur Rahman (Coordinator, Social Impact Lab) spoke about empathy versus sympathy, explaining how understanding matters more than pity. He shared his work supporting individuals with autism in Savar through arts and skills training.
Begum Nur Jahan Dipa (Principal of Vocational Training, PFDA) shared inspiring success stories from their 11-year journey helping people become ‘differently able, not disabled.’ She proudly mentioned Dolon, a former student who now runs his own boutique shop.
Dr. Mahboob Hossain (Professor, MNS) later reflected on the appreciation shown towards him, “These are some of the most precious gifts that I got because they were made by innocent children with Down syndrome. Thank you very much to Faria and others of the Health and Safety Club and PFDA for arranging such a beautiful event.”
The event successfully spread the message that inclusion begins with understanding.
