KCC administrator highlights insufficient mental health services in Khulna
Published: 12 March 2026, 3:38:32
Khulna City Corporation (KCC) Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju has said that mental health services in Khulna are inadequate, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to support young people and vulnerable groups facing psychological stress.
Speaking at a “Counseling Corner Advisory” workshop held Wednesday morning at GIZ Auditorium of the City Hall, the KCC Administrator highlighted that adolescents and young people often face mental stress due to various social pressures.
He noted that difficulties such as unemployment after completing education can lead to frustration, sometimes pushing individuals to take extreme measures.
He stressed that awareness programs should be conducted through religious institutions and educational centers and mental health services must be integrated into the government’s broader health policies.
The workshop was organized by NGO Caritas under “Ashash – For Rescue and Rehabilitation of Trafficked Men and Women” project. Following the project’s completion, Caritas established a Counseling Corner at the City Health Building on Sher-e-Bangla Road to provide mental health support, particularly for trafficked individuals and others facing psychological distress.
The initiative aims to restore mental well-being, help individuals overcome trauma and reintegrate them into normal life.
Since its inauguration on June 22, 2025, the Counseling Corner has provided counseling to 103 patients.
The KCC Administrator noted that despite limited resources, efforts will continue to maintain the Counseling Corner.
He added that he plans to raise the issue at the national level and advocate for the expansion of mental health services across the country.
The workshop was chaired by KCC Chief Health Officer Dr. Sharif Shammiul Islam.
Special guests included KCC Chief Executive Officer Rajib Ahmed, while project director Dipta Rakkhit delivered a welcome speech. Presentations were made by SK Nazmul Islam, Senior Manager at Winrock International and Advocacy Specialist Mrimoy Mahajan presented the project activities.
