The 2024 recipient of the Country Leadership Award for Bangladesh is Dr. M Tasdik Hasan. 

Tasdik’s bold thinking and decisive actions have revolutionized mental health care in challenging settings. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership as a researcher and advocate, setting a new standard for creativity and impact. His groundbreaking work has generated significant evidence on mental health issues in Bangladesh and similar contexts, leveraging global mental health theories and science communication to bridge the gap between research findings and real-world applications.

One of his most notable achievements is hosting the pioneering television show Caring for Your Mental Health in collaboration with Channel 24. This show, the first of its kind in Bangladesh, dedicates prime time to exploring diverse mental health topics from a research perspective, making crucial information accessible to a broad audience.

In a country where discussing mental health is often fraught with challenges, Tasdik has taken bold risks by engaging marginalized communities and student protesters in his research. This courageous approach, especially in the face of potential threats, highlights his fierce commitment to inclusivity and fairness.

His impactful PhD research on the mental health of the deaf community at Monash University, Melbourne, is pioneering co-designing digital resources to address the needs of this historically underserved group.

His extensive contributions include leading the Bangladesh Mental Health Country Profile and influencing the National Mental Health Strategic Plan 2020-2030. His research, recognized globally with numerous awards and citations, demonstrates his strategic leadership and commitment to advancing digital mental health.

Tasdik’s dedication and transformative work continue to inspire and profoundly impact mental health care locally and internationally.

Congratulations Tasdik!