�Adolescents need proper care, health related knowledge�
BSS
RAJSHAHI: Adolescent boys and girls need care, affection and need-based health related knowledge for their proper flourishing both physically and mentally, reports BSS. Health experts, academics and development activists separately told the news agency here that the adolescents constitute over one-third of the total population. Sharing his expertise Dr Abdus Sobhan, Deputy Director of Divisional Directorate of Health, said the adolescent age from 13 to 19 is very important for each of the boys and girls as they feel physical and mental change during this period. Surrounding people and the parents in particular should extend cooperative attitude and affection towards the boys and girls so that can feel free to discuss with their parents and elders about the changes in their bodies and mind they experience during puberty. Dr Anwarul Hassan Sufi, a senior professor of Department of Psychology in Rajshahi University said ensuring youth-friendly healthcare services to the teens are essential for enriching their knowledge relating to the reproductive health. Referring to various research findings Prof Sufi said many of the adolescents suffer from indecision due to ignorance and misconception over the reproductive health issue. Referring to the prevalence of child marriage among ethnic minorities Raj Kumar Shaw, Executive Director of Adibashi Sangskritik Unnayan Sangstha, said education should be given a higher priority rather than marriage, for young girls. All schools should have proper toilets with water and soap, separately for boys and girls. Dr Nasima Akhtar, Deputy Director of Department of Family Planning, informed that they are working with a small group of adolescents who usually suffer from identity crisis. Therefore they are giving more emphasis on counseling.
