In a groundbreaking move, the daughter of Bangladesh's Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, Saima Wazed, has been nominated as the next Regional Director for the World Health Organization (WHO) in the South-East Asia Region.
This historic decision was made during a closed meeting at the seventy-sixth session of the WHO Regional Committee, according to an official WHO press release.
The move to nominate Saima Wazed reflects a significant shift in leadership and a commitment to promoting health and well-being in the South-East Asia region. As the news of her nomination spread, it has been met with a wave of enthusiasm and optimism from various quarters.
"Saima Wazed's nomination represents a momentous occasion for the South-East Asia Region, signaling a strong step towards addressing the complex health challenges facing the area," stated the WHO press release.
The next crucial step in the process will be the submission of the nomination to the WHO Executive Board during its 154th session, scheduled to convene in Geneva, Switzerland, from 22nd to 27th January, 2024.
This meeting is expected to provide an opportunity for further deliberation and discussion on the appointment of the newly proposed Regional Director.
Assuming the nomination is endorsed by the WHO Executive Board, Saima Wazed is set to assume her new role on 1st February, 2024, as indicated in the WHO press release.
Her extensive experience in advocating for mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders, coupled with her dedication to public health, positions her well to take on this significant responsibility within the WHO.
Saima Wazed has been a prominent advocate for mental health issues in Bangladesh and across the globe, bringing significant attention to the often-neglected area of mental well-being. Her dedication and commitment to promoting a more inclusive and holistic approach to healthcare are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the regional health agenda.
The nomination of Saima Wazed for the esteemed position of WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia has been hailed as a bold and progressive step, sparking anticipation and hope for transformative change in the regional health landscape.
