Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) has entered into a strategic partnership with Footsteps Bangladesh to establish specialised libraries for children with special needs under its flagship social responsibility initiative, Project Britto. The collaboration seeks to advance inclusive education and foster independent learning opportunities for children who often remain underserved within mainstream educational systems.
The formal cheque handover ceremony took place at EBL’s head office in Dhaka, underscoring the bank’s sustained commitment to social development. Representing the bank, Ziaul Karim, Head of Communications and External Affairs, presented the cheque to Mohammad Taqi Yasir, Barrister of Lincoln’s Inn and Co-Founder and Vice President of Footsteps Bangladesh.
Addressing a Critical Infrastructure Gap
Across Bangladesh, numerous schools catering to children with developmental, cognitive, sensory, and physical challenges continue to operate without adequately equipped library facilities. Educational experts note that inclusive libraries play a pivotal role in supporting literacy development, communication skills, and emotional growth among children with special needs. Yet many institutions lack adaptive learning materials, assistive technologies, and accessible infrastructure.
Project Britto aims to bridge this gap by developing purpose-built library spaces designed around universal accessibility standards. These specialised libraries will include:
Adaptive learning resources such as Braille books, tactile materials, and visual communication aids
Sensory-friendly furniture and calming zones
Accessible shelving systems to accommodate mobility aids
Creative learning areas to stimulate cognitive and social interaction
The spaces are being developed in consultation with professional architecture and design partners to ensure compliance with inclusive design principles. Organisers emphasise that the environment will be safe, joyful, and developmentally appropriate, enabling children to explore knowledge independently.
Broader Context of Inclusive Education
According to education sector estimates, thousands of children in Bangladesh require tailored educational support due to various physical or neurodevelopmental conditions. However, institutional capacity remains uneven, particularly outside major urban centres. Stakeholders argue that accessible libraries are not merely supplementary facilities but fundamental learning resources that can enhance academic retention and long-term social integration.
The partnership aligns with global Sustainable Development Goal commitments, particularly those related to quality education and reduced inequalities. By integrating accessibility into educational infrastructure, Project Britto seeks to model scalable solutions that other institutions may replicate.
Ceremony Participants
The ceremony was attended by senior representatives from both organisations.
| Organisation | Name | Designation |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Bank PLC | Ziaul Karim | Head of Communications and External Affairs |
| Eastern Bank PLC | Maj. Md. Abdus Salam (Retd) | Head of Administration |
| Eastern Bank PLC | Md. Abdullah Al Mamun | Company Secretary |
| Eastern Bank PLC | Md. Maskur Reza | Head of Business Information Systems |
| Footsteps Bangladesh | Mohammad Taqi Yasir | Co-Founder and Vice President |
| Footsteps Bangladesh | Ebrahim Daud Abir | Head of Programs |
| Footsteps Bangladesh | Sadia Tanzim Tania | Program Development and Growth Officer |
Speaking at the event, Ziaul Karim stated that the initiative reflects EBL’s dedication to empowering marginalised children through sustainable interventions. Mohammad Taqi Yasir expressed appreciation for the bank’s support, noting that inclusive learning environments can transform educational outcomes and social participation for children with special needs.
The initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening educational equity and fostering a more inclusive future.