A young boy named Mohammad Faruk lived in a quiet village called Tulatali, located in the Ratnapalang Union of Ukhiya Upazila. He lived with his parents Mahabubul Alam and Rebecca Khatun Najma. Faruk’s childhood was different from most children of his age. While others are curious and eager to learn new things, Faruk shows no interest in expanding his knowledge. His parents also lacked the knowledge to give him proper care and guidance.
However, hope was on the horizon as Prottyashi and IRC started the Education Can’t Wait project in the Ratnapalong Union area. Through door-to-door student surveys, the project team identified children like Faruk who needed educational support. Thus, the Tista ECD center was established in Tulatali village by deploying a dedicated local ECD facilitator named Rukshana Akhtar Munni. This center, like others under the ECW project, aims to provide learning opportunities to children affected by crisis situations.
Faruk was among the students admitted to the Tista ECD center. After joining, he lacked even the most basic literacy skills, struggling to write his name or recite simple rhymes. His disinterest in learning was reflected by his irregular attendance and lack of engagement in class activities. Recognizing Faruk’s challenges, facilitator Rukshana Akhtar embarks on a mission to awaken his curiosity and passion for learning.
With colorful toys and personal care reminiscent of a mother’s love, Rukshana wanted to create a nurturing environment for Faruk and his peers. Through engaging activities and hands-on learning experiences, Faruk and his classmates begin to blossom. Their once passive attitudes were transformed into active participation, as they eagerly soaked up knowledge like sponges.
Faruk’s mother also played an important role in his education. She attended parenting sessions organized by the ECD Centre, gaining valuable insights on child care and child rights issues. Armed with new knowledge, she becomes a helpful partner in Faruk’s learning process, reinforcing the lessons taught at the center and encouraging his academic growth.
As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, Faruk’s changes were noticeable. With dedication and perseverance, he learned to write his name and introduce himself with confidence. He mastered the alphabet and memorized rhymes in both Bengali and English. His evenings were spent reading with his mother and practicing his newfound skills with his sisters.
Faruk’s mother happily said, “My son is very happy now! He comes home from the ECD center and tells me everything he learned that day. He can now draw things, small pictures and so on. Every night he sits and studies with his elder sisters. And he always Talks about washing hands and staying clean, teaching others to do the same. I’m really proud of how much he’s grown.”
Faruk’s story was not unique. Along with 150 other ECD students at Ratnapalong, he thrived in the supportive environment created by the Protyashi-IRC ECW project. Together, they embark on a journey of growth and discovery, gaining knowledge and skills that will enable them to make informed choices and shape their future.
As the sun set over Tulatali, casting a golden glow over the village, Faruk stood tall, a testament to the transformative power of education. His journey is a reminder that with dedication, support and opportunity, every child can reach their full potential. And looking ahead Faruk know the possibilities are endless, fueled by the boundless curiosity and hunger for knowledge that now burned brightly within him.
Written By:
KM Riazul Hasan
Education Technical Officer, PROTTYASHI-IRC ECW MYRP II
