On Saturday, July 19, 2025, the prestigious award ceremony of the National Book Reading Program took place at Shilpakala Academy, Rajshahi, celebrating the literary achievements of talented students from schools across the region. The vibrant event was organized by Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, with proud sponsorship from Grameenphone.
This initiative aims to foster a love for reading and promote cultural enrichment among young learners in Bangladesh. Grameenphone has been a committed partner in this noble endeavor for over two decades.
This year’s ceremony honored 2,303 students from 56 schools, recognizing their outstanding accomplishments in various categories. The event was attended by distinguished guests including: Mr. Khondaker Azim Ahmed, NDC, Divisional Commissioner, Rajshahi, Ms. Afia Akhtar, Deputy Commissioner, Rajshahi, Mr. Inam Al Haq, renowned ornithologist, photographer, writer, and traveler, Mr. Abdun Noor Tushar, Trustee, Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, Professor Alok Maitra, Organizer, Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, Natore, Mr. Ahmed Shafi Uddin, Organizer, Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, Mr. Md. Abdur Rashid, Deputy Director (Acting), Secondary and Higher Education, Rajshahi Region, Professor Mazharul Islam Toru, writer, researcher, and organizer, Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, Chapainawabganj, Md. Mahmudul Hassan, Regional Head, Grameenphone, Rajshahi Region
During the ceremony,
Md. Mahmudul Hassan shared: “The youth are the architects of our future. Grameenphone has proudly supported this transformative initiative for the past twenty years, helping nurture intellectual and emotional excellence. Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s Book Reading Program. There is no substitute for reading when it comes to developing knowledge and character. The efforts of Bishwo Shahitto Kendro in building enlightened individuals through reading are truly commendable, and we are honored to be part of this journey.”
Over the years, the National Book Reading Program has recognized and rewarded over 200,000 students for their passion for books—an inspiring testament to the power of reading.