BD HPN eToolkit: A Comprehensive Digital Library for Behavior Change Communication

The BD HPN eToolkit is an innovative and indispensable tool designed to support behavior change communication in the domains of health, population, and nutrition. As a digital library, it serves as both a repository and a platform for sharing valuable resources that empower individuals and communities to adopt healthier lifestyles. This application is a testament to collaboration between key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Bangladesh Knowledge Management Initiative (BKMI), and various divisions within the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

The eToolkit is enriched with a wide array of materials carefully curated by subject matter experts from institutions such as the Bureau of Health Education (BHE), Institute of Public Health Nutrition (IPHN), and Directorate General of Family Planning (DGFP). These materials encompass printed documents, audiovisual content, and other formats that have been meticulously selected and vetted by field workers to ensure practical utility. The inclusion of these resources underscores the eToolkit's commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based information that supports behavior change communication at the grassroots level.

One of the standout features of the eToolkit is its role as a vital resource for community counseling. By offering comprehensive guidance on promoting healthy lifestyle practices, it empowers healthcare professionals and community leaders to foster positive behavioral shifts. All materials available in the eToolkit have undergone rigorous approval processes, being endorsed by the IEC Technical Committees of the Health Services Division (HSD) and Medical Education & Family Welfare Division (MEFWD) of MoHFW. This ensures that every piece of content aligns with established standards and best practices in health promotion.

Ownership of the eToolkit has been transferred to entities such as the Lifestyle & Health Education Promotion (L&HEP) and National Nutrition Services (NNS) Operation Plan of DGHS, along with the Information, Education & Communication (IEC) Operation Plan of DGFP. These entities now manage and maintain the eToolkit under the auspices of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. The application operates seamlessly by pulling data from the official server, http://etoolkits.dghs.gov.bd/bangladesh-toolkits, with explicit permission from the government.

The development of this digital library was made possible through funding provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)/Bangladesh. The BKMI/USAID Ujjiban SBCC Project served as the technical assistance provider for creating the eToolkit, ensuring its alignment with global health priorities. While the opinions expressed in the eToolkit reflect the perspectives of its respective owners and producers, they remain independent of USAID's views.

In summary, the BD HPN eToolkit represents a monumental achievement in leveraging technology for public health. By offering accessible, reliable, and actionable information, it plays a pivotal role in driving behavior change communication efforts across Bangladesh. Whether used by healthcare providers, policymakers, or community advocates, the eToolkit stands as a beacon of progress toward a healthier future.