Footsteps, Eastern Bank Expand Special Needs Learning Spaces

Footsteps Bangladesh, in collaboration with Eastern Bank PLC, has inaugurated two Britto Children’s Libraries at SWID Bangladesh campuses in Eskaton and Dhanmondi, with the objective of supporting children with special needs through improved access to educational resources.

The initiative has been implemented under Project Britto, which focuses on converting underutilised school spaces into structured, child-friendly library environments. According to a press release, the redesigned spaces incorporate accessible layouts, carefully selected reading materials, and creative learning components intended to support inclusive education and encourage engagement among learners with special needs.

At the inauguration ceremony, Maskur Reza, Executive Vice President and Head of Business Information Systems and Managing Director’s Secretariat at Eastern Bank PLC, stated that the initiative is expected to generate meaningful impact. He also expressed optimism regarding continued collaboration between the organisations involved.

Shah Rafayat Chowdhury, Co-founder and President of Footsteps Bangladesh, noted that Project Britto has already received recognition within development circles and among partner organisations. He highlighted the organisation’s intention to extend similar initiatives to additional schools where library spaces are currently underutilised, thereby increasing access to structured learning environments.

Mohammad Taqi Yasir, Co-founder and Vice President of Footsteps Bangladesh, acknowledged the contribution of Eastern Bank PLC in supporting the initiative. He described the partnership as significant and impactful, and stated that Footsteps Bangladesh aims to continue implementing comparable projects across the country to promote positive educational outcomes.

The inauguration event was attended by several public figures, including Sameer Ahmed, Snigdha Chowdhury, Fahmim Rahman, and Sarah Alam. They expressed support for the initiative and underscored the importance of sustained collaboration in advancing inclusive education and improving learning opportunities for children with special needs.

The Britto Children’s Library initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance access to quality education and develop more supportive and inclusive learning environments for underserved groups in Bangladesh.

Project Overview

The establishment of these libraries reflects ongoing collaborative efforts between development organisations and private sector partners to improve educational infrastructure and expand inclusive learning facilities within institutional settings.