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The population of Khulna that was rendered homeless after the 1971 war, was later accommodated in temporary camps by the Red Cross. Today, after forty-seven years, more than 20,000 of them are still living in the dilapidated camps in Khalispur, Khulna in terrible conditions.
Post war, the camp residents were deeply affected economically and their children were deprived of an education. In 1973, an NGO, CONCERN, started two schools, giving the camp children a chance to study. CONCERN withdrew its education program in the year 2000. In Khalispur, there are only two to three government elementary schools; it is very difficult for the camp children to get admission in them. Many private schools were established here, but the camp dwellers could not dream of admitting their children there due to their financial hardships.
It was under this setting that OBAT established the Khulna school, providing hope and education for the disadvantaged camp children. The school started here in 2005 and was initially called, “Begum Bilqis Primary School.” Little by little, OBAT started taking over the school, increasing its financial commitment gradually. From 2008 onwards, OBAT Helpers started funding the school entirely.
The Khulna school started with only fifty students. At present, the number of students enrolled is one hundred and eighty-eight. The school operates as an elementary school now and the following subjects are taught: English, Math, Social Sciences, Religion, Bangla, General Knowledge, Health and Music.
Mr. M.A. Nayer, a generous supporter of OBAT from the West coast, has adopted the OBAT Khulna School. We greatly value and appreciate his support.
