SMC celebrates 50 years of innovation and growth

SMC has completed 50 years remarkably in the health sector of Bangladesh.

Over the past five decades, the company has achieved significant milestones by marketing innovative products and delivering essential healthcare services. Through the relentless efforts of all stakeholders, Bangladesh is now on the verge of reaching the goals of the family planning programme. Nearly half of the country's modern family planning users rely on SMC-branded contraceptives. In the 1980s, diarrhea was one of the leading causes of child mortality in Bangladesh. However, with the availability of SMC's oral rehydration solution, OR Saline (ORS), nationwide diarrhoea-related mortality rates have reduced significantly. SMC is implementing various health and nutrition programs targeting mothers, children, adolescents, and other family members.

In 2014, SMC established a subsidiary named SMC Enterprise Limited. Through the successful initiatives of this subsidiary, it has been possible to implement sustainable public health programs for women, children, and families across the country. Alongside implementing health programs, SMC markets a wide range of public health products, including oral saline, nutritional powders, electrolyte drinks, deworming tablets, sanitary napkins, baby diapers, and fortified biscuits.

To celebrate 50 years of its journey, SMC organised a vibrant programme on Saturday, January 25, at 5:00 PM at Hotel Intercontinental Dhaka. The event was attended by high-ranking officials from the Government of Bangladesh, local and foreign dignitaries, public health professionals, media representatives, and well-wishers.

The chief guest of the programme, Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, an honourable advisor for the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Bangladesh, addressed the audience. The Special Guests also addressed the event: Mr Saidur Rahman and Mr Md. Sarwar Bari, Secretaries of the Health Services Division and Health Education and Family Welfare Division under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Professor Jeff French, President of the International Social Marketing Association. Other esteemed guests included members of SMC's Board of Directors, Mr Waliul Islam, Chairman of SMC and SMC Enterprises Ltd., Mr Toslim Uddin Khan, Managing Director and CEO of SMC, Mr Sayef Nasir, Managing Director of SMC Enterprise Ltd., representatives from diplomatic missions, development agencies, prominent public health experts, media personalities, and members of civil society.

Addressing the occasion, Chief Guest Dr Salehuddin Ahmed commended SMC's significant contributions to improving the health system in Bangladesh over the past five decades. He congratulated the organisation on its golden jubilee and wished it continued success in its mission to enhance public health.