BRAC Institute of Educational Development in partnership with the FrameWorks Institute hosted research convening titled Building Futures: Using Metaphors and Values to Tell a Story of Early Childhood Development in Bangladesh at BRAC University in Dhaka on Wednesday.
The event brought together policymakers, ECD practitioners, researchers and academicians to discuss how evidence-based framing can improve communication, advocacy and policy dialogue around young children鈥檚 holistic development in Bangladesh, said a press release.
As part of their ongoing collaboration, BRAC IED and the FrameWorks Institute have explored how metaphors, values and narratives can help bridge the gap between scientific evidence and public understanding of early childhood development.
The research has generated a set of communication recommendations and a framing strategy designed to support more effective and accessible ECD messaging across sectors.
Mahmuda Akhter, vice-chair of the Bangladesh ECD Network, said, 鈥楨arly childhood development in Bangladesh is still growing as a sector. While the importance of the early years is widely recognised, there is a need for deeper and more sustained work in this field.鈥�
Pro-vice-chancellor of BRAC University, Arshad Mahmud Chowdhury, shared his reflections on the role of academic institutions in shaping public narratives on ECD.
He noted, 鈥楾hese are remarkable findings and the communication approach is clear, relatable, and has the power to shift mentality, especially for parents and caregivers. We are grateful to FrameWorks for showing a direction that aligns with BRAC University鈥檚 vision for children to grow, learn and flourish with equal opportunities.鈥�
The event was also attended by representatives from a wide range of organisations, including government bodies such as Bangladesh Shishu Academy and the National Curriculum and Textbook Board; NGOs like Centre for Disability in Development, Phulki, Aarajeyo Bangladesh, Dhaka Ahsania Mission, Porticus, ICDDR,B and Plan International.
The convening concluded by Erum Mariam, executive director of BRAC with a collective call from all to apply evidence-based framing to help shift public understanding and build stronger support systems for young children across the country.