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Courtyard meetings with women are held at least twice a month in each shoal, focusing on preventing child marriage and improving maternal health and child nutrition.

Arrangements have also been made for sewing and handicraft training for women from impoverished families, enabling them to generate income from alternative sources.

Jim Akhtar Jui, 12, from Khatamari Char, said she had dropped out after studying up to third grade. She later resumed her studies when Lalmoni Bidyapith began operating in the area.

“We are taught three days a week from morning till noon. I work in the fields with my parents on other days. I feel thrilled to have the opportunity to study again. We are also given books, notebooks, pens, and clothes,” she said.

Echoing her, Sakina Akhtar, 11, from Gobordhan Char, said they sometimes receive computing lessons as well.

Meherun Begum, a parent from Falimari Char, said her son and daughter had dropped out after fourth grade and used to help with household and farm work. They have now resumed their studies at the learning centre.

“They can now study alongside working with us. They receive all educational materials. The people of Lalmoni Bidyapith are also raising awareness on different issues. Many women are taking sewing and handicraft training. I am also planning to join,” she said.

Moslem Uddin, another parent from Dawkir Char, said locals are happy that the initiative is helping educate children from needy families.

Maysa Marzan, a volunteer and Nayem’s friend, said, “We teach the children ourselves and contribute financially as much as we can. We do this work out of our own satisfaction.”

Nayem said they aim to expand the initiative to 16 more shoals this year, but financial constraints remain a major challenge.

“Children in the shoals have talent, but without opportunities they cannot flourish. If given even a little opportunity, they can do much better,” he said.

“My friends are helping, and many donors are now coming forward. If children from the shoals are educated, they will one day become assets to their community and the country. We also plan to take full responsibility for some children in the future,” he added.