Currently there are no fully trained Speech and Language Therapists working in Bangladesh. CRP has introduced a 4-year BSc (Hons) degree in Speech and Language Therapy, affiliated to Jahangirnagar University. The first therapists should graduate in 2008, and CRP will then begin to offer a regular service.

Speech and Language Therapists work with adults and children who have difficulties communicating with others. These difficulties may have different causes such as:
physical problems (hearing impairment, cleft palate)
neurological damage (Cerebral Palsy, Stroke, brain injury)
cognitive damage (making it difficult to learn language)

Communication difficulties can affect all aspects of life. Children can find it difficult to learn at school and form relationships. They cannot express themselves and so get frustrated and angry. For adults it is equally devastating. They often have to give up their job, they may feel isolated and get depressed, and become a greater burden on their family and the health services.

Therapy includes working directly to promote speech and language as well as educating families, teachers and employers about the needs of people who find listening, talking, reading and writing difficult. In many cases, individuals are taught to use a mixture of ways to communicate (gestures, picture books, symbol boards as well as speech) to make communication more effective.

Speech and Language Therapists also help people who have difficulties chewing and swallowing their food. Many people who need help with their communication also have problems with eating and drinking. Problems in this area can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, chest infections and premature death. The stress caused to the individual and family is enormous.