Dhaka, Feb 01, 2024—In a groundbreaking development, Saima Wazed, a globally recognized mental health expert and autism advocate, has officially assumed the position of Regional Director for South-East Asia at the World Health Organization (WHO). The announcement comes after a unanimous vote during the 76th session of the WHO Regional Committee for the South-East Asia Region on January 1, 2024, followed by approval at the 154th session of the WHO Executive Board in Geneva, Switzerland, on January 22-27.
Saima Wazed, the daughter of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh, is not only the first individual from Bangladesh to hold this esteemed position but also the second woman to lead the WHO South-East Asia Region. Her extensive expertise in autism and her significant contributions to global mental health have garnered international acclaim.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Professor Dr. Samanta Lal Sen extended his warm congratulations, emphasizing Wazed's global reputation and experience in the field of world health. He expressed, "Saima Wazed is widely known globally as an autism expert, and she is a very experienced person in the field of world health."
The voting process, held in New Delhi, included the participation of member states such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, DPR Korea, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Timor-Leste. Wazed secured a decisive eight votes, while the alternative candidate, Dr. Shambhu Prasad Acharya, nominated by Nepal, received two votes.
As Saima Wazed embarks on her five-year term, she will succeed Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh as the outgoing Regional Director of the WHO South-East Asia Region. This transition marks a significant milestone and honor for the region.
Wazed's dedication to mental health is not only reflected in her new role but also in her position as an advisor to the WHO's Director-General for mental health. Her commitment to addressing global health challenges, particularly in the context of mental health, positions her as a key influencer in the international health arena.
The South East Asia Regional Organization (SEARO), one of the six regions of WHO with its headquarters in New Delhi, encompasses 11 countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, DPR Korea, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Timor-Leste.
Saima Wazed's leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategies to address the health challenges facing the region. The global community eagerly anticipates the positive impact of her tenure as the WHO South-East Asia Regional Director.
