DHAKA, Dec 19, 2024 (BSS) - AYAT Education, in partnership with  Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), the John C. Martin Foundation, and Integral Global, officially launched the Health and Wellness Digital Toolkit for Bangladesh’s Ready-Made Garment (RMG) workforce today at the BGMEA Head Office in the capital’s  Uttara.

The e-toolkit is designed to enhance the health and well-being of RMG workers, fostering healthier lifestyle and greater productivity.

The Health and Wellness Digital Toolkit provides easy access to health information searchable from the mobile phone, said a press release.

The e -toolkit is also designed to provide technical support to the factory management for taking up health awareness programmes.

Md. Anwar Hossain, Administrator of BGMEA and Vice-Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) was the chief guest of the programme. The event was also attended by the representatives from the International Labour Organization (ILO), Walmart, Primark, factory owners and representatives from the ready-made garment sector who emphasized the need for collective efforts to prioritize health and wellness in a coordinated manner.

  Md. Anwar Hossain in his speech lauded the effort, stating: “BGMEA is committed to ensuring workers' health, safety, and well-being. This digital toolkit particularly focusing on health and wellness     of RMG workforce in a timely and innovative initiative. It will help the garment industry and its workforce as well as other sectors on their pursuit to ensure healthy workforce and increased productivity. It is also essential to regularly monitor workers' health data.”

Nusrat Feroz Aman,  Chief Executive Officer of AYAT Education, in her speech said "Empowering workers with knowledge and tools is essential for building healthier, more productive communities. This solution will not only improve health awareness, but also boost productivity and reduce absenteeism, creating a safer and more sustainable workforce."

Managing Director of Ananta Group and member of BGMEA’s support committee Sharif Zahir, said, "Since we are also working with apps, I believe this initiative by AYAT Education will bring remarkable progress to the ready-made garment sector."

Nabil Ahmed, Founder and Director of Integral Global, highlighted the long-term impact of the initiative: "Access to health resources is a fundamental right.

This toolkit serves as a lasting resource for the RMG sector, empowering workers and management with practical health tools to improve well-being, productivity, and resilience. This collaboration will positively impact thousands and contribute to the industry’s sustainable growth."

 The toolkit represents a significant step towards improving the lives of workers—the backbone of Bangladesh’s largest export industry.