Sombhabona Innovation Hub launched in Shewrapara with underprivileged children and iftar gathering

Intending to expand access to technology education, skill development, and employment opportunities for underprivileged children and youth, the social development organisation Sombhabona organised the inauguration of the Sombhabona Innovation Hub along with a Ramadan Iftar program in Shewrapara, Dhaka.

The event was graced by Mohammad Muslim Chowdhury, Patron of Sombhabona, former Chairman of Sonali Bank, and former Comptroller and Auditor General of Bangladesh, as the Chief Guest, according to a media release.

Mohammad Tofazzal Ali, Executive Director of Standard Group and Patron of Sombhabona, attended the program as the Special Guest. Dr Halima Hanum Akhter, Saif Helali, Rahad Hossain, and other distinguished guests were also present at the event.

The program was presided over by Areful Islam, Founder of Sombhabona. Mushfika Zannat Nishat, Arefin Mahadi, and Al Amin Hossain, Co-Founders of Sombhabona, also delivered remarks at the event.

The event was hosted by Robiul Islam Rahat.

The program began at 4:30 PM, where the Chief Guest and Special Guest formally inaugurated the Sombhabona Innovation Hub by cutting the ribbon. This was followed by a guided tour of the innovation lab and its activities.

During the event, the honoured guests shared Iftar with underprivileged children. As a significant segment of the program, meritorious students of Pushpokoli School were recognised for their recent scholarship achievements, bringing pride to the institution and the community.

Through the Sombhabona Innovation Hub, initiatives were undertaken to provide training in basic computer skills, digital marketing, graphic design, freelancing, and DevOps. The initiative aimed to enhance digital competencies among youth and create sustainable employment opportunities.

Speakers at the event described the initiative as timely and visionary.

Chief Guest Mohammad Muslim Chowdhury said, “Technology education is essential for development in today’s world. The Sombhabona Innovation Hub will open new horizons for young people and contribute significantly to the country’s human resource development.”

Special Guest Mohammad Tofazzal Ali said, “This initiative is highly commendable, especially for including underprivileged children at its core. With proper guidance and skills, our youth can compete at a global level.”

In his remarks, Areful Islam said, “Sombhabona has always been committed to supporting underprivileged communities. Through this innovation hub, we aim to create not just learning opportunities, but pathways for a better and more sustainable future.”

Mushfika Zannat Nishat said, “This initiative reflects our long-cherished dream. We want young people to become self-reliant through technology and contribute to positive social transformation.”

Guest speaker Saif Helali said, “This platform has the potential to empower young minds with practical skills and real opportunities. Initiatives like this are essential for building a future-ready generation.”

Guest speaker Rahad Hossain said, “Creating opportunities for underprivileged youth through technology is a powerful step toward inclusive growth. This initiative will inspire many young people to dream bigger and achieve more.”

The organisers expressed hope that this initiative would expand access to technology and innovation, opening new doors of opportunity for young people and contributing to a more inclusive and empowered society, the release adds.