The Bangladesh Health Watch (BHW), in collaboration with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), organized a workshop on June 22, 2025 at the conference room of the Directorate General of Health Services, to disseminate findings from its latest research study titled "Budget Review of Primary and Secondary Level Health Care Centres in Kurigram District." The study was jointly conducted by Bangladesh Health Watch, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur, ARK Foundation and local NGO Solidarity.

Professor Dr. Md. Abu Zafar, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services, graced the event as the Chief Guest, while Md. Rizwanur Rahman Additional Director General (Admin) of DGHS, was present as the Special Guest. The workshop was chaired by Dr. Afreena Mahmood, Director of Planning and Research at DGHS. 

Professor Dr. Md. Abu Zafar emphasized the need for detailed budget analysis to ensure effective resource allocation and improved healthcare delivery, especially at the primary and secondary healthcare levels.

On behalf of the research team, Mr. Badruddin Saify, Junior Research Associate at ARK Foundation presented  the key findings of the Study. His presentation shed light on critical aspects of health sector budgeting in Kurigram, including government expenditure patterns, revenue distribution, procurement practices, and other financial challenges faced by healthcare centers.

An interactive question-and-answer session followed, during which participants - comprising government officials, researchers, and health sector stakeholders - engaged in a productive dialogue on budget utilization, planning efficiency, and financial transparency in the health sector.

Dr. Yasmin Hemayet Ahmed, Advisor of Bangladesh Health Watch highlighted the importance of evidence-based policymaking and the role of financial transparency in strengthening the country’s health system.

In the closing remarks from Dr Md. Rizwanur Rahman emphasized the need for continued collaborative efforts with research institutions to improve the quality of health care services.  He also highlighted the importance of community engagement through initiatives like Bangladesh Health Watch and mentioned that such efforts are essential for enhancing the quality of health services.