Room to Read and Bata Launch Literacy & Life Skills Project in Gazipur

An educational cooperation project aiming to enhance literacy and gender equality was officially inaugurated at Ashraf Textile Mills High School in Gazipur. Funded by the Bata Shoe Foundation and implemented by Room to Read Bangladesh, the initiative focuses on building foundational learning habits and essential life skills among local students.

For primary school students (Grades 1–5), the project establishes child-friendly classroom libraries, provides level-based storybooks, trains teachers and appoints student 'Book Captains' to foster daily reading habits. It also introduces reading games, wall magazines and parent-teacher meetings to boost attendance and promote home reading culture.

At the secondary level, the project formed a 'Jiban-Dakshta Club' (Life Skills Club) to guide students toward higher education and informed decision-making. The initiative provides educational and recreational materials, workbooks and teacher training focused on child protection, sexual exploitation prevention and harassment awareness.

Professor Dr. Zahida Nazneen, Director (Planning and Development) at the Department of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) attended as chief guest and inaugurated the club room and material distribution. She highlighted that early reading habits combined with secondary-level life skills prepare children to become responsible and capable citizens.

Gazipur District Education Officer Md. Al Mamun Talukder presided over the ceremony, which was also attended by Room to Read Bangladesh Country Director Rakhi Sarkar and Bata HR Manager Razia Sultana. Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to creating joyful, equitable and safe learning environments across Bangladesh.