Bangladeshi charity leader wins Commonwealth Point of Light award
A Bangladeshi charity leader has been recognised as the 223rd Commonwealth Point of Light by Queen Elizabeth II in honour of his exceptional voluntary service providing education to over 1,200 children from marginalised backgrounds, says a press release.
Kishore Kumar Das, 40, set up ‘Bidyanondo’ in 2013, which started with only 22 students and now runs five primary schools which are free to access, as well as running free academic coaching sessions and scholarship programmes to help children continue into the higher education.
Kishore has also introduced a meal programme, 'Ek takay aahar' (Meal for one penny), which has provided more than 10,000 nutritious meals for vulnerable people, particularly children and those who are homeless.
During the coronavirus pandemic, the charity further ramped up its efforts to distribute relief across the country, with Kishore and volunteers also working to sanitise public spaces and transport and provide on-going educational, health and nourishment support to those in need.
Kishore said, "I feel humbled to reflect on the fact that the world is benefiting from the work that we, the volunteers, are doing. And, the Commonwealth Points of Light validates that Such honour helps volunteers determine where our focus should be. I believe this prestigious recognition of 'Bidyanondo' will inspire different charitable organisations to be more humane and beneficiary oriented."
Javed Patel, acting British high commissioner to Bangladesh said, "My warmest congratulations to Kishore Kumar Das on his Points of Light award. Through this recognition, we also acknowledge the inspirational volunteers of 'Bidyanondo Foundation' who are contributing to eradicating hunger, empowering people and improving access to quality education in Bangladesh. Their outstanding efforts continue to drive young people in Bangladesh and across the world towards the spirit of volunteerism and compassion. This award further strengthens the Brit Bangla Bondhon and the values of the Commonwealth."