BRAC Institute of Educational Development (BRAC IED), in partnership with the FrameWorks Institute, hosted research convening titled “Building Futures: Using Metaphors and Values to Tell a Story of Early Childhood Development in Bangladesh” on 19 November 2025 at BRAC University.
The event brought together policymakers, ECD practitioners, researchers, and academicians to discuss how evidence-based framing can improve communication, advocacy, and policy dialogue around young children’s holistic development in Bangladesh.
As part of their ongoing collaboration, BRAC IED and the FrameWorks Institute have explored how metaphors, values, and narratives can help bridge the gap between scientific evidence and public understanding of early childhood development. The research has generated a set of communication recommendations and a framing strategy designed to support more effective and accessible ECD messaging across sectors.
Speaking at the convening, Mahmuda Akhter, Vice Chair of the Bangladesh ECD Network (BEN), said, “Early Childhood Development in Bangladesh is still growing as a sector. While the importance of the early years is widely recognized, there is a need for deeper and more sustained work in this field. We urgently need stronger and more rigorous research to better understand the ECD landscape in Bangladesh and guide meaningful action.”
The Honorable Pro-Vice Chancellor of BRAC University, Arshad Mahmud Chowdhury attended and shared his reflections on the role of academic institutions in shaping public narratives on ECD. He noted, “These are remarkable findings and the communication approach is clear, relatable, and has the power to shift mindsets, especially for parents and caregivers. We are grateful to FrameWorks for showing a direction that aligns with BRAC University’s vision for children to grow, learn and flourish with equal opportunities.”
The event was also attended by notable representatives from a wide range of organizations, including government bodies such as Bangladesh Shishu Academy (BSA) and the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB); NGOs like Centre for Disability in Development (CDD), Phulki, Aarajeyo Bangladesh, Dhaka Ahsania Mission (DAM), and many more; INGOs including Porticus, icddr,b, Plan International, and other development partners. Along with these distinguished guests, numerous other stakeholders from across the country participated, engaging in discussions on how the framing strategy can strengthen national policies, enhance community engagement, and support broader advocacy efforts. The convening concluded by Dr. Erum Mariam, Executive Director of BRAC with a collective call from all to apply evidence-based framing to help shift public understanding and build stronger support systems for young children across the country.
