Dialogue Highlights Idle Medical Oxygen Facilities in Bangladesh

A crucial dialogue addressing equitable access to medical oxygen took place at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), organized by the Center for Health, Implementation and Policy Sciences (CHIPS). The event highlighted a concerning issue: oxygen plants and supply systems, established during the COVID-19 pandemic, are now largely idle.

The gathering brought together key figures from the health sector, academia, and media. Prof. Foara Tasmim, additional director general (planning and development) of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), served as the chief guest. Md. Nasser Shahrear Zahedee, founder and chairman of Radiant Pharmaceuticals Limited, was the guest of honor, while Didar A. Husain, chairman of the IUB Board of Trustees, attended as a special guest. The program was presided over by Prof. M. Tamim, vice chancellor of IUB.

Discussions featured insights from prominent individuals including Dr. S.M. Moazzem Hossain, director of CHIPS; Dr. Ehsanur Rahman, a scientist at icddr,b; Prof. Md. Abid Hossain Mollah, head of pediatrics/neonatology; Dr. Shams El Arifeen, an emeritus scientist at icddr,b; Dr. Mamunur Rahman Malik, a physician and epidemiologist; Shishir Moral, special correspondent for Prothom Alo; and Dr. Kamran Ul Baset, dean of the IUB School of Pharmacy and Public Health. IUB trustees Rashed Chowdhury and Dr. Husne Ara Ali were also present.