Staff Correspondent, Rajshahi

With an aim to provide education to underprivileged children, “Jagoron Pathshala” initiated its journey in Rajshahi yesterday.

All for One Foundation, a volunteer organisation, set up the free school as part of its child development centre programme in the city’s Seroil Colony area.

Social worker and the city unit Awami League vice president Shahin Akter Reni inaugurated the school by distributing books, schoolbags, notebooks, pencils and other equipment among 70 enrolled students.

“I urge the city’s authorities to support the school so that it can function without any hindrance,” she said.

Most of the students are from low-income families, some from Harijan community while some were either victims of trafficking or born in brothels, said school authorities.

They said their aim is to develop skilled manpower through education.

Besides experienced teachers providing primary education for free, the students would also get opportunity to engage in cultural activities and computer trainings.

“We won’t let any enrolled student drop out. It’s our responsibility,” said Kamrunnesa Mira, chairperson of All for One Foundation.

“There are also option for technical education for those who want to explore other skills. We are also trying to increase the number of students,” she said.

The foundation would run the school with financial support from its members.

Shamima Akter, a mother of two from Hazra Pukur area, said, “At first, I hesitated to send my children, thinking about expenses. But they [school authorities] offered to teach them for free.”

Rozina Begum of the same area echoed her. “I feel relieved and happy that this school opened and my children will attend classes here.”

Meanwhile, children — in bright outfits, holding new schoolbags and books — were ecstatic and looking forward to go to school. 

source: The Daily Star