The vision of Rupantor ICT Lab began in 2019, when our founding team discussed how to create opportunities for young people in Madaripur through technology. We first thought of setting up a small computer lab with just two or three computers where marginalized youth could learn basic computing and internet skills. The idea quickly gained support, and we prepared a presentation to shape it further.
At the same time, we approached Dr. Mohammad Chowdhury (Bipu Bhai), a physician from Texas, USA and long-time supporter of community initiatives. He immediately appreciated the concept and personally pledged to donate two computers. With his encouragement, we drafted the operational and budget plan for the lab.
In 2021, momentum for the project grew. By then, Bipu Bhai had joined the Sanabil Foundation as Vice President, which opened the door to pitching our ICT Lab idea to its board. At the same time, we reached out to Md. Khalid Hasan Yead, Honorable former Mayor of Madaripur Municipality, who readily agreed to support the project. With joint efforts, Sanabil Foundation committed to provide 10 computers, while Madaripur Municipality allocated space for the lab.
The name “Rupantor” (meaning Transformation) was suggested by ACT Co-Founder Chowdhury Fakrul Alam, linking directly to our organization’s name, Actions Contributing to Transformation (ACT) Foundation. Both Sanabil Foundation and Madaripur Municipality endorsed the name warmly.
Key support also came from Khondakar Abu Ahammad Firoz Iliyas, Poura Nirbahi Officer of Madaripur Municipality, who helped us secure the space and set up the facility. Fakrul coordinated the groundwork, while Nazmul Shamim designed the lab’s branding and visuals, and Shadman Sakib Shorbo developed the social media assets.
On 21 September 2021, the dream finally became reality with the inauguration of Rupantor ICT Lab at Madaripur Municipality Bhaban. The ceremony was hosted by Mayor Khalid Hasan Yead, with Senior Secretary Helaluddin Ahmed from LGED as the chief guest. Deputy Director Azharul Islam attended as special guest. The event was widely praised as a pioneering step in bringing digital education opportunities to a district level.
The lab began operations with two initial courses—Computing 101 and Digital Marketing Fundamentals. These were led by Mehedi Shamim, Bappi Da, and Munna. From this modest start, Rupantor ICT Lab quickly established itself as one of the flagship initiatives of ACT Foundation, symbolizing how a simple idea, combined with teamwork and community support, can transform into a lasting institution.
Source: Istiaque Ahmed Shawon