A workshop titled “Workshop on Youth Anticipation Hub; Innovative and sustainable ideas to support Anticipatory Action initiatives in Local and National Level” was organized by Young Power in Social Action (YPSA) under the ‘Child-Centered Anticipatory Action for better preparedness of communities and institutions in Northern and coastal areas of Bangladesh’ Project, supported by Save the Children and funded by the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO). The event was held at the Ichamoti Hall of Hotel Agrabad, Chattogram, on October 16, 2025, with active participation from members of the Youth Anticipation Hub.
The workshop aimed to engage young people in addressing the impacts of Anticipatory Action and disaster preparedness through innovative and participatory approaches. Youth participants enthusiastically shared creative ideas and solutions, making the event both interactive and educational.
The workshop began with an inaugural speech from Sanjida Akter, Project Manager of YPSA, who emphasized the importance of anticipatory action in disaster management.
“Instead of compensating after a disaster, taking action beforehand can significantly reduce losses. Our work focuses on preparedness before disaster strikes,” she noted.
Following her remarks, Akfaruzzaman Rubel, representative of Save the Children, conducted a session on the overview of the project, its anticipatory actions, and the expected outcomes of the workshop.
Message of Innovation and Leadership
Abdus Sabur, Assistant Director of YPSA and Youth Focal Person, facilitated an engaging ice-breaking session using Mentimeter. Later, he led a session titled “Youth Leadership in Innovation, Advocacy, and Early Response”, where he emphasized inclusivity and respect for diversity.
“We are all equal. We must work through the lens of humanity and respect diversity,” he said, receiving an enthusiastic response from the participants.
In the second half of the workshop, participants were divided into four groups to identify problems and develop sustainable, innovative solutions. The group activities were highly participatory, allowing youth to address often-overlooked local challenges with creative and practical ideas.
Expert Opinions
Guest speakers included Dr. Sadiqa Sultana, Assistant Professor of Sociology and Sustainable Development at Premier University, and Md. Shah Jalal Mishuk, Assistant Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at CUET.
Impressed by the innovative ideas of the youth, Mr. Mishuk remarked,
“The way these young minds are coming up with solutions is extraordinary. Where we once relied on manual processes, they are now integrating technology — AI, remote sensing, GIS, aerial photography. The driving force behind all these efforts is the youth.”
Dr. Sadiqa Sultana highlighted the urgency of tackling climate change, stating,
“We must think about how to overcome the impacts of climate change. It’s not only the youth — everyone globally must act together.”
The workshop was successfully facilitated by Muhammad Ataul Hakim, Project Officer of YPSA. Organizers believe that the event inspired young participants to take an active role in disaster preparedness and innovative solution-building, while participants expressed highly positive feedback about the experience.
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