Grameenphone and Plan International Bangladesh host session on transforming digital access for marginalized communities

Grameenphone, in collaboration with Plan International Bangladesh and Telenor, has demonstrated the transformative potential of digital inclusion during a learning and sharing session held today at GPHouse in Dhaka. The event highlighted the impact of the "Safe Digital Space for Girls and Youth (SDSGY)" project, which has empowered 2.9 million individuals across eight marginalized communities, with a focus on women. The project equips participants with critical digital skills and promotes online safety awareness, fostering confidence and security in the digital landscape.

Tanveer Mohammad, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of Grameenphone, delivered the welcome speech. Keynote presentations detailing the project's progress and impact were given by Anjum Rasna Hasan, Project Lead at Grameenphone, and Khurshid Ara, Project Lead at Plan International Bangladesh. The sessions were moderated by Kabita Bose, Country Director of Plan International Bangladesh, and Yasir Azman, CEO of Grameenphone. Special guests included Md. Aminul Haque, Vice Chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission, and Kazi Moklesur Rahman, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Beneficiaries, partners, and other distinguished guests were also in attendance.

Several project beneficiaries shared their transformative experiences. Brishti Goala, from the Lakkatura Tea Garden in Sylhet, explained how she learned to shop online and access government services through the project, expressing her excitement about acquiring these skills. Niyasha Chowdhury Mim, a transgender woman from Narayanganj, spoke about the societal challenges she faces and how the SDSGY initiative has significantly improved her life, providing her with a sense of hope and empowerment. Atikur Rahman, a hearing and speech-impaired individual from Rajshahi, shared how he learned to navigate the internet safely and effectively, greatly enhancing his ability to manage daily life. Khushi, a child marriage survivor from Lalmonirhat, revealed that e-commerce training enabled her to start an online clothing business, which is now thriving. Sheema Akhter Smriti, from Gaibandha, recounted her journey from battling cancer and idle social media use to learning about online bullying and harassment through Radio Sarabela. She expressed gratitude for the opportunities the project has provided.

Yasir Azman, CEO of Grameenphone, emphasized the company's dedication to creating a digitally inclusive Bangladesh by bridging gaps in digital literacy, promoting online safety, and unlocking opportunities for marginalized groups, especially women and youth. Kabita Bose, Country Director of Plan International Bangladesh, highlighted the essential role of digital skills in empowering young people, particularly girls, to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Grameenphone remains committed to advancing digital inclusion for marginalized communities, working to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to technology and its opportunities.