The Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU), with support from NRB Commercial Bank (NRB C Bank), has awarded scholarships to the children of its deceased members to support their education. Under the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund, 33 children of late DRU members will receive a monthly scholarship of BDT 3,000, totaling BDT 36,000 per year for each student.
The scholarship cheques were handed over on Thursday, November 27, at the DRU Shafiqul Kabir Auditorium by Education Adviser Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, who was the chief guest at the event. NRB Commercial Bank has contributed a total of BDT 1.188 million for this initiative.
Addressing the recipients, Professor Dr. Rafiqul Abrar said, “Journalists are the conscience of the nation. Through your writings, the truth comes to light. You have expressed your desire to continue your education at DRU, and I will do my best to support you. With ambition and determination, nothing is impossible. This scholarship for the children of DRU’s late members is a significant initiative, and I thank DRU for making it possible.”
He added, “There is no substitute for education in building a developed nation. Both government and private institutions must step forward to provide quality education at all levels. NRB C Bank’s initiative to support the education of journalists’ children is truly commendable. If more institutions show such responsibility, no child will be deprived of education due to financial constraints.”
NRB C Bank DMD & CEO Mohammad Abdul Kaiyum Khan said, “Journalists are the conscience of the nation. Their writings expose discrepancies and also provide a roadmap for development. Through our extensive network of nearly 600 branches, we work to uplift marginalized communities, providing financial support for education, healthcare, and disaster relief.”
DRU President Abu Saleh Akon noted, “Journalists risk their lives for the country, but many lack financial security. The untimely deaths of 33 DRU members left their families in hardship. We are striving to support them, and we thank NRB C Bank for stepping forward to provide scholarships to their children.”
General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel expressed gratitude to NRB C Bank for supporting journalists’ welfare and hoped for continued cooperation in future initiatives.
The ceremony also included a welcome speech by DRU Welfare Secretary Rafiqul Mridha. Other attendees included DRU Vice President Gazi Anwar, Joint Secretary Nadia Sharmin, Finance Secretary Sakhawat Hossain Sumon, Office Secretary Rafiqul Rafi, IT & Training Secretary Md. Borhan Uddin, Sports Secretary Md. Mozibur Rahman, and NRB C Bank PLC Head of Communication Division Md. Harun-ur-Rashid.
