CivicConnect Empowers Youth with Civic Engagement and Advocacy Skills held in Mymensingh.

SERAC-Bangladesh, in collaboration with DDI South Asia, Accountability Lab, and Mymensingh Urban Youth Council successfully organized the Foundational Training Programme on Civic Engagement and Advocacy on 1st and 2nd August 2026 under the CivicConnect: Youth Bridging Citizens and Government project in Mymensingh.

The program brought together 50 participants from diverse sectors of society, including journalists, academicians, student representatives, members of the Mymensingh Urban Youth Council, advocates, social workers, NGO professionals, business representatives, and community leaders, to build their knowledge, leadership, and advocacy skills, so they can be active contributors to democratic governance and community development. The initiative reflects SERAC-Bangladesh’s commitment to empowering youth with the knowledge and practical tools needed to foster meaningful citizen participation and strengthen the relationship between citizens and government.

The training provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of key concepts essential for effective civic engagement. Through interactive sessions and participatory learning methods, participants explored topics including Human Rights, Civic Engagement, Issue Identification and Analysis, Evidence-Based Advocacy, Stakeholder Engagement, and Community Mobilization.

Designed to be highly practical, the programme combined presentations, group discussions, problem-solving exercises, and collaborative learning activities that encouraged participants to analyze community challenges and develop evidence-based approaches to advocacy. The sessions also strengthened participants’ confidence to engage constructively with public institutions and contribute to local decision-making processes.

The programme was honoured by the presence of Mr. Md. Rukonuzzaman Rokon, Administrator of Mymensingh City Corporation, who joined as the Special Guest. During his address, he emphasized the importance of collaboration between citizens and government in building responsive, inclusive, and accountable local governance.

He encouraged young people to actively participate in civic processes and highlighted the valuable role that informed and engaged citizens play in identifying local challenges, proposing practical solutions, and strengthening public accountability.

The training sessions were facilitated by the SERAC-Bangladesh team, including Mizanur Rahman Akanda, Advocacy Specialist; Md. Nazmul Hasan, Project Manager; and Tahmid Hossain, Program Officer.

Using interactive discussions, practical exercises, case studies, and group activities, the facilitators guided participants through the principles and practices of civic engagement and advocacy. The participatory approach ensured that participants not only gained theoretical knowledge but also developed practical skills they can apply within their own communities.

The CivicConnect: Youth Bridging Citizens and Government project seeks to strengthen the capacity of young people to become informed, responsible, and proactive civic leaders. By equipping participants with the skills to identify community issues, engage relevant stakeholders, gather and use evidence, and advocate for sustainable solutions, the project contributes to stronger citizen–government relationships and more responsive local governance.

Through initiatives like this training program, SERAC-Bangladesh invests in youth leadership and civic participation, empowering the next generation to drive positive change and build communities where citizens and public institutions work together to address local challenges and create a more inclusive future.