Satkhira Correspondent: In a bid to ensure education for underprivileged and drop-out children, a non-formal primary education program is making significant strides in the rural areas of Satkhira. The initiative, running at the Labsa Non-formal Primary School, is being implemented by the local non-governmental organization ARA (Action for Rural Advancement) with technical support from BRAC.
The non-formal education model specifically targets children from marginalized communities who either never enrolled in traditional schools or dropped out early due to economic hardships. By providing free learning materials, flexible school hours, and a student-friendly curriculum, the program aims to bridge the literacy gap and eventually integrate these students into the mainstream education system.
Local community members and parents have expressed immense gratitude for the initiative. They noted that before the establishment of this learning center, many of these children were involved in minor household labor or left unsupervised. Now, dressed in uniform and equipped with school slates and books, these children are rediscovering the joy of learning.
Representatives from ARA emphasized that basic primary literacy is a fundamental right and a crucial tool to break the cycle of poverty in climate-vulnerable coastal regions like Satkhira. They reaffirmed their commitment to continuing and expanding such grassroots educational initiatives.