Bangladesh: Technical school for Indigenous students in Chattogram Hill Tracts
Holy Cross Brothers laid the foundation for a technical school, hostel, and Brothers' Residence on November 10, 2024, as part of a project to provide Indigenous students with education, skills, and a safe, nurturing community environment.
It is a significant step forward in the mission to serve the marginalized communities in Bangladesh, particularly those in the remote and often underserved Chattogram Hill Tracts.
The region, marked by rugged terrain and unique cultural diversity, presents real challenges for access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
The Holy Cross Brothers embarked on a journey to address these needs by establishing a technical school, hostel, and brothers’ residence.
Brother Ripon James Gomes, CSC, the Provincial Superior of St. Joseph Province, laid the foundation for this promising initiative.
Accompanying him were councillors Brother Nirmol Francis Gomes, CSC, and Brother Xavier Rozario, CSC, whose commitment and vision have helped bring this project to life.
Together with Brother Linus D’Rozario, local church authorities, community members, and engineers from the construction firm, the team gathered in a spirit of unity and purpose.
Father Rocky Costa, OMI, prayed and blessed the site, marking the space as a future beacon of hope for the local community.
Brother Ripon, said, "We reflected on our shared mission to stand with the poor, providing resources that will help young people in this area overcome the limitations of poverty and isolation.”
He stated, "We stood in anticipation of our imminent transformation into a hub of learning, shelter, and brotherhood."
The initiative aligns deeply with the Holy Cross Brothers' mission: to make God’s love tangible by uplifting the poor, advocating for justice, and building pathways to sustainable futures. For the families in these remote regions, access to education and skills training will be life-changing.
The technical school will equip students with practical skills for meaningful employment, while the hostel will provide a safe, supportive home for those who would otherwise face significant travel barriers.
The Brothers’ Residence will offer guidance, spiritual support, and mentorship to students and local people alike.
“The project is more than a building; it is a testament to our commitment to transformation through education, presence, and advocacy for dignity,” said Brother Ripon.
The project is also a testament to people, donors, and partners who believe in the power of education and community as tools for change.
The technical school will create opportunities for the community's future leaders.
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