It all started with a small dream: To see the children in rural areas become successful global citizens. To realize that dream, we tried to delve into the factors that limited these children’s chances. The main barrier was the lack of opportunity to learn how to communicate in the English language.

The children living in the city, who had continuous exposure to the language, were more confident communicators. This gave us an idea: why not arrange the opportunity of learning English for rural children from a very early age. They could quickly learn and adapt to the new language with regular classes and practice.

Keeping this in mind, we started our class at Sherpur DJ School in 2016. We renovated the 150 years old building of D J High School and set up the first smart classroom.

Since one of our key objectives is to help children from rural schools aspire to jobs in the world market, we decided to give them access to the internet and technology. Also, we would strive and work towards enabling them to speak, read, and write English like the natives.

Initially, we selected three high schools and three primary schools where the total number of students is around 4000. At each school, we provided internet with high bandwidth. The computer lab consists of up to 20 computers, one 52″ flat-screen TV, one laptop for the teacher, and an emergency energy supply system in case of an outage. In addition, we provided two digital/ smart classrooms, each with a 52″ flat-screen TV and one laptop for the teacher. One of these two classrooms is equipped with a distant teaching facility where students can interact and communicate with expert educators from different countries. We funded teacher training, internet, monitoring, and maintenance of these facilities.

At present, classes are being conducted from Los Angeles, USA, taken by native English speakers so that students can directly learn and understand the correct pronunciation of words and phrases. However, our services are not limited to just language studies; instead, it’s the point from which students are offered new and exciting things outside their regular program that will benefit them in the long run.

The objective is that by 9th grade, the students should be savvy users of computers, the internet, and social media. They should be able to find information from the internet, see images, and videos, edit documents, and design presentations. As these skills are necessary to succeed in online education and job competitions, learners will also be taught to give online interviews.

Below are a couple of services that have commenced:

English (Service 1): Comprehension and conversation English learning in Primary schools begins in 3rd grade. Classes began in November 2021 in Upozila Sodor Model Primary and Krishnopur Primary. Soon Sherpur Pouroshova Primary will have the same opportunity. For high schools: creative writing in English is planned from mid-2022; so are extra math classes. Classes on Leadership (Leadership, Ethics, and Conflict resolution) will begin in 2024.

Learn to Earn Program (Service 2): “The Learn to Earn” program will help children learn so that after they grow up they can contribute to the society. We will be creating a new facility called ‘The Counseling and Placement Center’. Here learners will be advised on job opportunities (both national and international), required skills to compete for different jobs, selecting courses and institutions, etc. Those who want to pursue a degree program will have the opportunity of getting advice and the facility to do so. As kids acquire skills, the Center will look for placements and help kids land a job.