Doors for Inclusive Society Launches Rajshahi University Unit to Empower Students with Disabilities

Doors for Inclusive Society (DIS) officially inaugurated its Rajshahi University (RU) Unit on Saturday (August 1), aiming to promote inclusive higher education, equal opportunities, and holistic empowerment for students with disabilities, special needs, and disadvantaged backgrounds.

The launching ceremony was held on the university campus, with Dr. Md. Mahbubur Rahman, Proctor of Rajshahi University, gracing the event as the Special Guest. Officially inaugurating the university chapter, Dr. Mahbubur Rahman emphasized the necessity of ensuring equal access to academic resources, skill development, and institutional opportunities to foster a barrier-free educational environment.

"Achieving a truly inclusive academic community requires the collective, sustained commitment of the university administration, development organizations, and broader society," stated Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, while expressing optimism regarding the future expansion of such initiatives across higher education institutions.

Commitment to Barrier-Free Inclusion

Highlighting the organization’s core vision of "Building a Barrier-Free Inclusive Society," S. M. Ferdous Alam, President of Doors for Inclusive Society, outlined the ongoing efforts of DIS to mainstream marginalized groups. He noted that the organization works to empower persons with disabilities through technology-based skill training, academic support, employment generation, entrepreneurship programs, and community-driven inclusion projects.

Ferdous Alam expressed confidence that the newly established Rajshahi University Unit would serve as a crucial platform to create new academic and professional avenues, nurturing skilled, self-reliant, and socially responsible future leaders among the student body.

Distribution of Assistive Technologies and Scholarships

As part of the inauguration program, DIS distributed smartphones, Smart White Canes, medical financial support, and educational scholarships to students with disabilities and economically underprivileged students. These resources are designed to enhance students' access to digital learning platforms, improve independent mobility, and alleviate financial barriers during their higher education journey.

The ceremony brought together university faculty members, departmental representatives, general students, volunteers, and delegates from various social organizations. Established as a non-profit organization, DIS continues to advocate for disability inclusion, assistive technology access, and equal rights across Bangladesh.