A learning and sharing session was held today (November 28) at GP House in the capital to highlight the potential of transformation in digital inclusion. Organized by Grameenphone in partnership with Plan International Bangladesh and Telenor, the event highlighted how the 'Safe Digital Space for Girls and Youth (SDSGY)' project is playing a role in building a safer and more empowered digital future.
This digital inclusion initiative has played a transformative role in empowering 2.9 lakh people in eight marginalized communities, with a focus on women's development. The project focuses on training participants in various essential digital skills and enhancing online safety awareness, so that they can navigate the digital world confidently and safely.
Grameenphone's Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Tanveer Mohammad gave a welcome speech on the occasion. Grameenphone Project Lead Anjum Rasna Hasan and Plan International Bangladesh Project Lead Khurshid Ara presented the keynote of the event highlighting the progress and impact of the project. Two separate sessions were moderated by Plan International Bangladesh Country Director Kavita Bose and Grameenphone Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Yasir Azman. Vice Chairman of Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission was present as a special guest in the event. Aminul Haque and Joint Secretary of Ministry of Youth and Sports Kazi Mokhlesur Rahman. Besides, project beneficiaries, partners and other distinguished guests were present.
Rishi Gola of Sylhet's Lakkatura tea garden came up with how he learned about online shopping and using government services through this project. He expressed his excitement about acquiring these new skills. 23-year-old Nyasha Chowdhury Mim from Narayanganj highlighted her various challenges as a transgender woman and being subjected to social abuse and humiliation in a session of the program. SDSGY also expressed gratitude towards the project for providing a positive change in his life. He expressed hope that more such initiatives are launched to help marginalized people like him in the society. Hearing and speech impaired Atiqur Rahman from Rajshahi said that through this training he was able to learn how to use the internet safely and effectively. This education has been very useful for him, life has become much easier. Khushi of Lalmonirhat, who was saved from child marriage, said that she got training on e-commerce through this project. He then started a business selling clothes online which is now quite viable. Gaibandha's Seema Akhtar Smriti could no longer go to college due to terminal cancer. His idle time was spent through social media. At that time, he came to know about online bullying and harassment through Radio Sarabella. He expressed gratitude to Grameenphone and Plan International Bangladesh for launching such an effective project.
Grameenphone Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Yasir Azman said, 'Grameenphone is determined to build an inclusive digital Bangladesh. This move has opened up new opportunities, strengthened online safety and eliminated digital education disparities for marginalized groups, especially women and youth.'
Plan International Bangladesh Country Director Kavita Bose said, 'In today's world, digital skills are essential to empower the youth, especially girls. The purpose of this project is not only to teach the use of the Internet; Rather, to provide everyone with the education and skills to use the digital space safely and effectively.'
