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| Computer science graduate |
In November 2025, a young computer science graduate from Mymensingh, Bangladesh, made headlines for an inspiring reason. Instead of chasing high-paying jobs abroad, Afifur Rahman chose to return home. His mission is simple yet powerful — to bring technology education to his village, Gafargaon’s Sholhasia area, and help rural youth become future digital citizens.
Afifur’s Vision for Gafargaon
In an era where technology defines the world, many young professionals leave Bangladesh in search of better opportunities. However, Afifur Rahman, a computer science graduate from a reputed university in Dhaka, decided to take a different path. After completing his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering, he returned to his hometown, Gafargaon, in Mymensingh district.
There, he noticed a lack of access to quality computer education among school and college students. Most young people in the area were unfamiliar with digital tools, programming, and online learning. To solve this problem, Afifur started a small technology education center named “Digital Pathshala” in Sholhasia village. His goal is to teach students computer basics, coding, and digital literacy — skills that can change their future.
According to Afifur, “Technology should not be limited to city students only. Everyone deserves the chance to learn digital skills. If we can educate our rural youth, we can build a smarter Bangladesh.”
What Experts and Locals Are Saying
Afifur’s initiative has already drawn attention from local educators and technology experts. Professor Md. Kamrul Hasan, a faculty member at Mymensingh Polytechnic Institute, praised his work. He said, “Afifur’s contribution is a great example of how young graduates can make a difference. His efforts can inspire others to work for their communities.”
Local residents also appreciate his project. Many parents from nearby villages are enrolling their children in his training programs. One parent, Shamsun Nahar, shared, “Before this, our children had no access to computers. Now they are learning how to use technology responsibly.”
Government officials from the Gafargaon Upazila ICT Division have also visited the center. They expressed interest in supporting Afifur’s work by providing technical equipment and training materials under the national ‘Digital Bangladesh Vision 2041’ program.
Background and Similar Initiatives in Bangladesh
Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in expanding technology education over the last decade. Programs like “She Power Project,” “ICT for Education,” and “Learning and Earning Development Project” (LEDP) have helped thousands of young people learn digital skills. However, most of these projects are focused in urban areas such as Dhaka, Chittagong, and Rajshahi.
Afifur’s project in Gafargaon stands out because it focuses on rural youth — the group most often left behind in the digital revolution. His model is similar to what has been done in places like Rangpur and Khulna, where community-driven digital centers have helped local students find online freelancing and remote work opportunities.
According to a 2025 report by the Bangladesh ICT Division, only 34% of rural students have access to digital learning resources. Afifur’s Digital Pathshala aims to improve that number by providing affordable and practical training sessions.
Challenges and Future Plans
While Afifur’s initiative has been praised, running a tech education center in a rural area comes with challenges. Limited internet speed, electricity problems, and lack of funds often slow down progress.
Despite these issues, Afifur remains hopeful. He plans to expand his center in the coming months and introduce courses on graphic design, web development, and basic data analysis. He also hopes to collaborate with online platforms like 10 Minute School and BD Skills Development Academy to provide certified courses to his students.
Afifur’s long-term goal is to create a local “Tech Hub” in Gafargaon. This hub would allow students to work on small software projects, participate in online competitions, and even start freelancing careers from home.
He believes that rural Bangladesh has enormous untapped potential. “Our youth are intelligent and hardworking,” Afifur said. “They just need the right guidance and tools. If given proper training, they can compete globally.”
Conclusion
Afifur Rahman’s story is a true example of how one person’s vision can create meaningful change. By returning to his roots and sharing his knowledge, he is helping bridge the gap between urban and rural education in Bangladesh.
His journey reminds us that real development begins at the grassroots level. With more initiatives like Digital Pathshala, Bangladesh can move one step closer to becoming a truly digital nation.
Source References:
- Bangladesh ICT Division (https://ictd.gov.bd)
- A2I Program – Digital Bangladesh (https://a2i.gov.bd)
- Mymensingh Polytechnic Institute – Local Education Reports (2025)
- Interviews and field reports collected from Gafargaon, Mymensingh (Nov 2025)
Disclaimer
This article is based on verified information collected from local reports, educational authorities, and public statements. All details have been cross-checked with credible sources to ensure accuracy. The article aims to promote awareness about technology education initiatives in rural Bangladesh.
