Music for Development is a unique program. Initiated by Dr. Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, the world-renowned Rabindrasangeet exponent and a graduate of Viswa Bharati University at Shantiniketon, it has transformed the lives of underprivileged children from the slum areas of Dhaka, Bangladesh, through the power of music education.

Based on the educational philosophy of Nobel Laureate and polymath Rabindranath Tagore, Music for Development integrates training in the musical arts with supplementary tutoring for these underprivileged kids. The extra tutoring covers mathematics, English, Bengali, coding skills and vocational training so they can grow up to have the same potential as any other child.

These underprivileged kids are trained in the musical arts side-by-side with children from all walks of life, helping break down societal barriers. The love and care shown by their teachers give these children a sense of belonging. As a result, their passion for learning is invigorated. The drop-out rate from the regular school among the children of MFD is zero. The female children of MFD aspire to build their careers first, and the rate of child marriage among them is low.

Many MFD graduates are now going to colleges and universities. Some have even started their businesses that serve the communities they are from.

Our vision is that through the power of music and education, we can transform the lives of underprivileged kids in Bangladesh so that they can take their place in the brighter future of Bangladesh.

—

Tibra Ali, PhD
Volunteer Treasurer
MFD