President urges joint effort to establish universal health protection system

President urges joint effort to establish universal health protection system
President Mohammed Shahabuddin. File Photo

Online Desk

Published: 2026-04-06 19:31:56

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Monday called on all stakeholders, including government and private doctors, researchers, environmentalists and livestock experts, to collaborate in building a universal and integrated health protection system.

In a message marking the eve of World Health Day 2026, the President emphasised that sustained attention, proper investment, and effective implementation of ongoing health programmes can bring significant improvements in healthcare services and key health indicators. This year, the global observance carries the theme “Together for Health, Stand with Science.”

Highlighting the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health, President Shahabuddin warned that modern civilization’s harmful practices continue to threaten ecosystems, wildlife, and overall public health - a concept known as ‘One Health.’

He stressed that addressing these challenges requires integrating scientific knowledge into a cohesive health protection system.

The President also underscored that access to healthcare is a fundamental human right. Aligning with the government’s “Health for All” policy, he said steps are being taken to ensure universal access to healthcare with dignity. Among these measures is the introduction of electronic health (e-health) cards to provide all citizens with a foundational patient identity system.

In addition, the government is working to increase budget allocations for the health sector, expand free quality primary healthcare, strengthen maternal and child health services, promote disease prevention and health awareness, and build a corruption-free healthcare system.

President Shahabuddin expressed hope that these initiatives, backed by science and collective effort, will ensure comprehensive and equitable healthcare for all citizens.