The Institutional Quality Assurance Cell of American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB-IQAC) organized a Thalassemia Awareness Seminar in collaboration with the Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation (BTF) on March 3, 2026, at the AIUB Auditorium. The event brought together faculty members, administrative officials, and students to raise awareness about thalassemia prevention, early screening, and the importance of community support for patients living with the condition. The initiative reflects AIUB’s continued commitment to social responsibility and community health engagement.

The seminar began with a welcome address by Dr. Muhammad Wasiful Alam, Head of the Department of Public Health and the MPH Program at AIUB. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of awareness and education in preventing hereditary diseases such as thalassemia and emphasized the role of universities in promoting responsible health practices among young people and the wider community.

The session continued with an introduction to the mission and activities of the Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation, delivered by Professor Dr. Syeda Masooma Rahman, Vice-Chairman of the foundation. She shared insights into the organization’s ongoing efforts to combat thalassemia in Bangladesh through awareness programs, screening initiatives, and patient support services.

An informative presentation on “Thalassemia and Awareness” was delivered by Dr. Razia Sultana, Transfusion Medicine Specialist at BTF. She explained the causes, diagnosis, and management of thalassemia, while emphasizing the importance of premarital screening and early detection as key preventive measures. The session provided valuable knowledge to participants and encouraged greater awareness about responsible health decisions.

A key highlight of the program was the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between AIUB and the Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation, marking the beginning of a collaborative partnership aimed at strengthening awareness, education, and community health initiatives related to thalassemia. The MoU was signed by Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna, Member of the AIUB Board of Trustees, on behalf of AIUB, and Professor Dr. Syeda Masooma Rahman on behalf of BTF. This MoU sets the foundation for future joint initiatives dedicated to thalassemia awareness and community engagement.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Dr. Md. Abdur Rahman, Pro Vice Chancellor of AIUB, who expressed his appreciation to the distinguished guests from BTF for their valuable contributions and reaffirmed AIUB’s commitment to initiatives that promote public health and social awareness. The event ended with a group photo session, marking a successful collaboration and a meaningful step toward building a healthier and more informed community.