In the heart of Bangladesh’s tea-producing regions, the legacy of colonialism still lingers, casting a shadow over the lives of many who work in this industry. The tea sector, a vital part of the country’s economy, is still prone to exploitative practices. Workers on company-controlled estates find themselves trapped in a cycle of poverty, deprived of access to essential services such as housing, medical care, and education. As a result, families have limited resources and access to opportunities are few and far between.
The dire state of education in these tea gardens is particularly alarming. A report from the Bangladesh Tea Board in 2004 revealed that while there were 188 primary schools across 156 tea gardens, these institutions were grossly understaffed. With only 366 teachers to serve nearly 26,000 students, many schools operate in subpar conditions, often comprising a single room where one teacher manages up to 100 children. The result is a staggering 25% literacy rate among children in these communities, leaving many without the skills needed to break free from poverty.
A report from the Bangladesh Tea Board in 2004 revealed that while there were 188 primary schools across 156 tea gardens, these institutions were grossly understaffed.
Rosana - the lovely little butterfly
Amidst these challenges, a ray of hope shines through in the form of St Marcellin College, Giasnogor. For students like Rosana, a bright 10-year-old from the Kashia tribe, this school represents a chance at a brighter future. Described by her teachers as a "lovely little butterfly," Rosana initially struggled with basic literacy and numeracy skills when she was first brought to the school. Not knowing Bengali, the language barrier further complicated her learning.
For students like Rosana, a bright 10-year-old from the Kashia tribe, St Marcellin College represents a chance at a brighter future.
However, with the unwavering support of her dedicated teachers, Rosana overcame these obstacles, passing her end-of-year exams and progressing to grade 7. Today, she can read and write in Bengali, opening new doors to her future.
Since its inception in January 2017, St Marcellin College has provided secondary education to 446 students, with a focus on those from tea gardens. The school operates with a maximum capacity of 480 students and offers boarding facilities for both boys and girls. Its mission is clear: to provide free education and lodging for children from these marginalised communities, helping them to break free from the cycle of poverty that has long defined their lives.
Since its inception in January 2017, St Marcellin College has provided secondary education to 446 students, with a focus on those from tea gardens.
Generous support from donors enables Australia Marist Solidarity (AMS) to cover 75% of student scholarships, easing the financial burden on families like Rosana’s, who typically make less than 1 euro a day in the tea gardens.
St Marcellin College is not just an educational institution; it is a beacon of hope for students like Rosana, offering them the tools and opportunities they need to transform their lives. The commitment of The Marist Brothers Trust Bangladesh, operating under the Star of the Sea Province, has been instrumental in this mission, providing essential support to improve the lives of marginalised children in the tea gardens.
St Marcellin College is not just an educational institution; it is a beacon of hope for students like Rosana, offering them the tools and opportunities they need to transform their lives.
In 2024, the school will launch the "Preserving the Environment and Property" project, aimed at constructing a boundary wall around the campus. This initiative will help combat soil erosion and reduce the risk of theft, creating a safer and more conducive learning environment for students.
St Marcellin College stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and community support. By providing children with the opportunity to learn and grow, it fosters hope and empowers the next generation to break free from the shackles of poverty.
To learn more about the ongoing projects and efforts in Bangladesh, please visit Australian Marist Solidarity. Together, we can make a difference and help pave the way for a brighter future for the children of Bangladesh's tea gardens.
Written by Milika Nation, Communications & Engagement Coordinator, AMS
Pic Courtesy - Milika Nation
Australian Marist Solidarity is the international agency for the aid and development work of the Marist family in Australia throughout Asia and the Pacific Islands.
AMS works with the people in this region on a combination of long-term and short-term development projects. These projects aim to develop or support locally sustained education opportunities for the young people in these regions. AMS works to bring education and hope to young people living in Asia and the Pacific so that they can build a brighter future.
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