By Md. Abu Abdullah, Former Additional Secretary, Government of Bangladesh
Situated at the crossroads of Khalia and Rahamatpur villages, Rahamatpur Government Primary School has been a symbol of opportunity since its establishment as a registered non-government institution in 1990. Founded under the visionary leadership of heroic freedomfighter Habibur Rahaman Biswas and Headmaster Md. Zafor Ali Mondol, the school continues to inspire students to dream big and build a brighter future.
In 2006, the school welcomed 184 students, including 101 girls, supported by a dedicated team of four teachers. Today, under the able leadership of Headmaster Papia Rani Saha and six teachers, it nurtures 114 students, with an impressive 98 girls, reflecting a strong commitment to gender-inclusive education. While the school’s proximity to the community ensures accessibility, challenges like dropouts and less-than-ideal enrollment persist. Introducing school meals could significantly boost attendance and retention, offering a practical solution to keep children in classrooms.
Rahamatpur Primary School follows a structured weekly class routine and an annual teaching plan, enriched with co-curricular activities, as mandated by the Directorate of Primary Education. Teachers are tasked with implementing these plans to foster holistic development. The school boasts a two-storied building equipped with toilets on both floors, recently enhanced with handwashing facilities and a deep tube well for clean water. The Education Department’s renewed focus on science, mathematics, language learning, and inclusive education for children with disabilities further strengthens the school’s foundation.
The key to unlocking Rahamatpur’s full potential lies in community engagement. Greater involvement of guardians, particularly mothers, can elevate educational standards, reduce dropouts, and bring out-of-school children into the mainstream. Awareness campaigns targeting parents could ignite a transformative change, ensuring every child has access to quality education.
The school’s legacy is a testament to its impact. One alumnus Md. Sohel Rana now serves in the prestigious Bangladesh Civil Service, while others have carved out dignified paths in various fields. These success stories fuel hope among current students, inspiring them to aim high and pursue their dreams with determination.
Rahamatpur Primary School stands as a pillar of promise in rural Magura, proving that with collective effort and unwavering commitment, education can pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future. As Md. Abu Abdullah, a former Additional Secretary, aptly states, “The achievements of our students light the path for others to follow, shaping a hopeful tomorrow for our nation.”
