In the remote Charimartion at Rangabali upazila in Patuakhali, education had been an unattainable dream for many children. The nearest school was five kilometers away, a perilous journey involving crossing a khal by boat, leading to an increase in school dropouts.    

But a ray of hope has emerged in this impoverished region, thanks to the philanthropy of local fisherman Qaiyum Kazi and the intervention of Bashundhara Group.

Qaiyum Kazi, aged 37 and a fisherman by profession, had to forego education due to poverty. As the fourth of seven children, he only learned to write his name, but his illiteracy never deterred his ambition to provide a better future for the children of Charimartion.

With agriculture, fishing, and cattle farming as his livelihood, Kazi took a significant step towards realising his dream by donating six decimals of land to establish Bashundhara Shuvosangho School.

The school, a partnership between Kazi and the Bashundhara Group, began operating in February this year. It currently serves 80 students, exempted from admission and tuition fees. Besides, these students are receiving books and study materials free of charge. The initiative has become a symbol of progress, illuminating the char with the light of literacy.

The newly established school has been received with immense joy and relief by the local community. Many parents expressed their happiness and gratitude. Sathi Begum, the mother of student Tasmion Akter, shared her struggle of sending her daughter to the previously nearest school, a journey fraught with risk. The new school has turned their daily struggle into a thing of the past.

Third grader Banani encapsulated the sentiment of the student body: “We have received new books, copies, pencils, and other study materials. The rare opportunity given by Bashundhara Shuvosangho School has encouraged us to continue study and stand on our feet.”

Dr Zahir Uddin Ahmmed, Chairman of Rangabali Upazila Parishad, lauded the school initiative, calling Charimartion a remote and neglected area. He emphasised the importance of the endeavour: “If we fail to ensure the education of 100 percent children, it will be a great disaster for society. Bashundhara Group has done a great job by establishing a school here. Besides, the company is carrying out other social welfare activities in the upazila.”

The establishment of Bashundhara Shuvosangho School is not just a step towards literacy; it is a leap towards empowerment and hope for the children of Charimartion.

In an area haunted by sheer illiteracy and marked by a stark lack of resources, this collaboration between a determined fisherman and an influential industrial group represents a profound commitment to education and the well-being of the community.

The success of this initiative serves as an inspiring testament to the power of community collaboration and corporate social responsibility. It underlines the fact that even in the most remote and neglected corners of the world, concerted efforts can bring about a transformation that lights up lives.

BDST: 1313 HRS, AUG 19, 2023 
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