Godagari: Bicycles, sewing machines, scholarship money, and dresses were distributed among small ethnic groups and underprivileged students in Godagari Upazila as part of the "Development Assistance for Special Areas" program. This initiative, implemented by the Prime Minister's Office, aims to support these communities in the fiscal year 2025-2026.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the distribution ceremony was held at the Godagari Upazila Parishad auditorium, attended by Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner Shahidul Islam, who was the chief guest. The event was organized by the Upazila administration during a day-long inspection and exchange meeting in Godagari.
Presided over by Godagari Upazila Nirbahi Officer Israt Jahan, the ceremony also saw the presence of special guests, including Godagari Assistant Commissioner (Land) Mir Mezbahi Julam Chowdhury, Upazila Agriculture Officer Mariam Ahmed, Senior Fisheries Officer Wahiduzzaman, and Officer-in-Charge of Godagari Model Police Station Sujan Mia.
Deputy Commissioner Shahidul Islam emphasized the government's role in improving living standards for backward and disadvantaged populations and promoting educational activities among students. The distribution of bicycles is expected to facilitate school commutes, while sewing machines aim to empower women to achieve economic self-reliance.
During the event, 109 bicycles were distributed to students, notably female students, to ease their travel to school. Additionally, 30 students from Diyar Manikchak Primary School received school dresses, school bags, and shoes to prevent dropouts and ensure regular attendance.
Financial assistance in the form of scholarships was provided to 726 students from small ethnic groups to encourage their studies and reduce dropout rates. Moreover, keys to 22 disaster-resilient houses were handed over to poor and homeless families from small ethnic groups.
The initiative also included the distribution of 73 sewing machines, aimed at fostering self-employment and economic independence among women.