|| Mohammad Yousuf, Barishal: A ‘Mother and Child Festival’ was held at Islami Bank Hospital Barishal on Monday, August 24, bringing together more than 200 mothers and children in an initiative focused on maternal and child health, nutrition, care and positive parenting.The programme began at 10am in the hospital’s consultation zone. It was chaired by the hospital’s Superintendent, freedom fighter Prof Dr Altaf Uddin Ahmed.The gathering created a lively and family-friendly atmosphere as mothers and children took part in the event. Doctors specialising in gynaecology and paediatrics discussed various aspects of maternal and child healthcare and offered practical advice on nutrition, childcare and healthy development.Among the special guests were renowned paediatrician Dr Mahmud Hasan Khan, gynaecologists Dr Sabrina Sudha and Dr Kazi Touqia Rahman (Rupa), anaesthesia specialist Dr Ziaur Rahman and the hospital’s Resident Medical Officer (RMO), Dr Farhana Siddika Asha.Administrative In-charge Muhammad A. Kuddus delivered the welcome address. Officer (Administration) Ashikul Haider Manik conducted the programme, while Assistant Officer (Administration) Muaz Al Khatib recited verses from the Holy Quran at the beginning of the event.The speakers placed particular emphasis on the role of parents in shaping a child’s personality and character. They said that the values and behavioural patterns a child develops during early childhood can have a lasting impact on their future life.They urged parents to become role models for their children through their own behaviour and everyday lifestyle. According to the speakers, raising a morally sound and well-rounded child requires more than prayers and wishes; it also requires active parental involvement, affection and guidance.Parents were advised to keep children away from excessive mobile-phone use and fast food. The speakers also stressed the importance of spending sufficient quality time with children despite the pressures of daily life and listening to them attentively.Several mothers participating in the festival shared their personal experiences and discussed different concerns before the hospital authorities. The Superintendent listened to them carefully and later provided advice on their problems, assuring them of necessary measures where appropriate.Hospital officials and employees from various departments also attended and helped organise the programme. They included Accounts In-charge Mamun Hawladar, Marketing In-charge Zakir Hossain, Marketing Officers Md Ibrahim and Anisur Rahman, Service Executive Azizur Rahman Alid, Store In-charge Oliur Rahman, Nursing Supervisor Sharmin Akter, Reception In-charge Md Mamun-or-Rashid, Assistant Officer (Administration) Jewel Parvez Akash and Purchase Officer Miraj Hossain, among others.At the conclusion of the festival, gifts and food packets were distributed among all the mothers and children who participated.The participating mothers and guardians praised the hospital authorities for arranging the event, describing it as a useful opportunity to discuss family health, childcare and the responsibilities of parents in raising healthy and responsible children.The initiative, beyond its festive character, highlighted an important message: ensuring the wellbeing of children requires not only medical care, but also proper nutrition, attentive parenting, healthy habits and a supportive family environment.