Empowering Voices Amidst Polarization: A Day at Islamia High School | SALT Advocacy

[Sadia Jafrin]

On 22nd August 2024, I had the privilege of visiting Islamia High School in Old Dhaka. This school is located near the historic Boro Katra, a site rich in our country's history. Two Teach For Bangladesh fellows invited me to visit them. Our Grow Your Reader Foundation will be working with their school. During our visit, I conducted two sessions with the teachers and the students of grade 8. 

Bangladesh is currently experiencing a period of significant reformation after the fall of a 16-year autocratic regime. The people are deeply concerned about rebuilding our system to ensure that everyone can exercise their democratic rights and responsibilities. Amidst this challenging time, Bangladesh is also facing the worst flood in its history. Despite these hardships, we are witnessing incredible unity among citizens of all ages, religions, and genders, coming together to help one another.

When I entered the classroom, I noticed a palpable tension. The students were not smiling, as they were still grappling with the ongoing struggles for reformation and justice within their academic institutions. We began our discussion with a SALT session, where the students shared their stories with their peers and appreciate each other. As they opened up, I saw their expressions change—they started to smile genuinely and reflect deeply. 

I asked one girl if she enjoyed the conversation, and she replied, "Nobody ever told me that I am so powerful that I can change my country." Her words filled me with pride for these young students. It reminded me once again that the people of Bangladesh have big hearts, but we often forget our own strength. SALT conversations can be a vital tool to reignite that confidence.

Later, I met with the teachers. They were under significant stress, as their students were protesting and demanding the resignation of corrupt teachers. Nowadays, people are not watching entertaining dramas or cinema; instead, everyone is focused on political talk shows and news. Everyone has their own views and perspectives, and sometimes they engage in political debates. Unfortunately, this is also leading to polarization in educational institutions, which can be very harmful to us. Unity is more crucial than ever in this fragile time. 

The tension was evident, and no one was smiling. However, after the SALT conversation, the atmosphere in the room transformed. Positive energy filled the space, and many teachers even requested extra time to continue sharing their stories and appreciation. Seeing the smiles on their faces was rejuvenating. 

One teacher's words particularly resonated with me, "We have a lot of power as a mass, but we never exercise it in a positive way. We always wait for others and imagine a superman will come and save us. But we all are superman."

I encouraged them to practice SALT conversations whenever they feel low or polarized, as it can create a lasting impact on their students. Students often look up to their teachers, and that's why it's crucial for teachers to hold and radiate positive energy.

This experience reaffirmed my belief in the power of conversation to bring about change, starting with the hearts and minds of the people.

[Sadia Jafrin]

Thank you so much santi didi. You always inspire me.

[Santi rambari]

শুধু সমাজের মধ‍্যেই নয়  আমাদের কোহট মেম্বারদের ও তুলনা হয়না। সাদিয়া আপুর লেখা  আমাকে সমৃদ্ধ করে।