Educating the slums

In the last report we told how the girls in Dubai lost their scholarships, after the school ownership changed at the last minute before the new school year started in September. This was heartbreaking. To get them to Dubai, finding their mothers work and sponsorship so that their residence in Dubai is all above board, took months and months and months.

Fortunately some extremely kind souls came forward to help out. Some individuals covered their school fees for 6 months year so that they could go back to school without delay. Also the amazing Taleem schools provided 50% scholarships for the girls. They are really enjoying their studies and doing very well.

The students still at school in Bangladesh are working hard, all dreaming of one day going to university or taking up internship programs in Dubai.

Talking of interns, this program is keeping us very busy, with many businesses supporting this initiative. We realized a long time ago that most of our students in Bangladesh, even the brightest students with a good education, remain disconnected from real opportunities. The barriers they face are often financial, but also societal or cultural, especially the girls.

The aim of this initiative is to connect good candidates with good companies in Dubai and internationally. It comes with many challenges, travel, visas, a place to stay and living costs, but the results have been incredible.

The intern students have made great starts to new careers with some incredible companies in Dubai, including some renown global brands. Many of the students have even gone on to sponsor their own family members, bringing them to Dubai so that they can enjoy the same new beginnings, full of opportunities.

We hope to continue step by step, bringing more students for intern opportunities and keep providing the best education possible to the rest.