Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Shishu Sasthya Foundation, Bangladesh (SSF, B), to support its initiative in strengthening services for paediatric inpatients from underprivileged and marginalised families.

Ahmed Shaheen, additional managing director of EBL, handed over a cheque for Tk 61 lakh to Reza Karim, secretary general of the foundation, at a ceremony held at the bank's head office in Dhaka today, according to a press release.

Ahmed Shaheen stated, "This partnership with the Shishu Sasthya Foundation, Bangladesh is an effort to ensure that no child is deprived of the care they deserve due to financial constraints."

"Together, we can pave the way for a healthier and brighter future for the children," he added.

Karim remarked, "EBL's support will undoubtedly strengthen the efforts of SSF, B in assisting the distressed."

The donation will be allocated towards upgrading paediatric inpatient services, including the renovation of two wards, the installation of modern medical equipment, enhanced nursing stations, and oxygen systems.

With these improvements, the hospital will be able to serve approximately 2,400 children annually, providing critical medical care to those in need.

Among others, AKM Shamsuzzaman, joint secretary general of the foundation; Prof Shah Mahfuzur Rahman, member of the executive board; Mohammad Jannat, deputy director; Md Abdullah Al Mamun, company secretary of the bank; Md Maskur Reza, head of business information systems; Md Shahjahan Ali, head of compliance; and Md Safiqul Islam Zahid, head of financial operations and control, were also present.