Digital innovations for COVID-19 response in Bangladesh: an NGO perspective

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unique challenges for countries with resource constraints, demanding innovative approaches to public health interventions. BRAC, the largest NGO in Bangladesh, came up with community-focused digital solutions to strengthen the country’s pandemic response. Leveraging its extensive network of community health workers, and partnerships with government and international partners, BRAC launched several innovative initiatives, including a COVID-19 Dashboard, Community Support Team, and the Dishari remote learning platform. These initiatives aimed to address critical needs such as real-time data collection, community-level support for symptom identification and referrals, and capacity building among CHWs. Together, they demonstrate how digital tools can effectively complement public health efforts in times of crisis.