Youth with extraordinary courage

Kumar Bishwajit Barman has stopped about 700 child marriages and saved many teenagers and adults from the deadly claws of drug abuse in the northern district of Kurigram. Five years ago, as an 18-year-old boy, he established a school to provide them with free education and make them aware of the ills of child marriage and drug addiction. Despite facing threats from influential people, Barman pitted himself against these social evils, fought them with extraordinary courage and determination and held them to a standoff - all with the help of a few friends and local government officials. 

He has also made the highest personal sacrifice, choosing not to enroll in Rajshahi University even after clearing the entrance exam with flying colours so that he could continue his work with his 'school of hope'. 

In a country where more than 50 percent of girls are married off before the age of 18 and drugs have ravaged even small towns and villages, Barman's story inspires awe. He challenges the oft-used axiom that people are powerless. In giving a second chance to all these people, he is likewise, giving a lifeline to all of us. Kumar's selflessness will no doubt, evoke our sense of responsibility towards the community.

Our hope is that Bishawjit's sacrifice inspires people - young and old - all over the country to take the initiative to fight social menaces that stand in the way of progress. Such noble endeavours should be given support by both the government and the private sector.