Grameenphone’s Digital Drive Empowers Rajshahi’s Marginalized Communities
Under the project “Digital Inclusion for Marginalized Communities,” the lives of underprivileged people in Premtali, Rajshahi, have been transformed through digital empowerment. To witness this transformation firsthand, senior representatives from Grameenphone, Telenor Asia, and Plan International Bangladesh recently visited the area along with members of Grameenphone’s Board of Directors.
The delegation included John Omund Revhaug, Chairman of Grameenphone’s Board of Directors and Head of Telenor Asia, along with other board members. Plan International Bangladesh’s Country Director, Kavita Bose, and other senior officials from the participating organizations were also present.
During the visit, the team observed a courtyard session where participants from different ethnic communities were engaging in interactive digital literacy lessons. They also heard inspiring stories from previous participants who shared how the program had improved their quality of life and created new opportunities through digital inclusion.
John Omund Revhaug, Chairman of Grameenphone’s Board and Head of Telenor Asia, said, “When people gain the skills to use technology, the doors to progress and opportunity open before them. The stories of rural women and youth prove how transformative digital inclusion can be, and how connectivity can change life trajectories. Telecommunications infrastructure has become an essential part of modern life. That is why we are committed, together with our partners, to making the digital world open and accessible for all.”
Grameenphone’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Yasir Azman, stated, “Grameenphone believes that digital progress becomes meaningful only when it is inclusive. We are creating pathways for marginalized communities to learn, grow, and thrive in the digital world. The stories from Rajshahi demonstrate how targeted digital literacy programs can transform inclusion into genuine social advancement. Our mission to empower people through connectivity and extend the benefits of the digital revolution to remote areas of Bangladesh is reflected in this progress.”
Plan International Bangladesh’s Country Director, Kavita Bose, remarked, “The online world reflects our society, where many—especially girls and young women—face bullying, harassment, and insecurity. Through this project, we have been able to bring real social change by enabling marginalized youth to use the internet safely. Our initial target was to reach 2.3 million people, but with the sincere cooperation of Grameenphone, Telenor, Youth for Change, and local communities, we have exceeded that goal, reaching more than 3 million people. Our journey continues until the digital and social spaces become safer and more equitable for everyone.”
The initiative stands as a shining example of the shared vision of Grameenphone and Telenor to promote social empowerment, sustainable progress, and inclusion at the grassroots level through technology and connectivity. These efforts have not only improved livelihoods but also enhanced confidence and independence among participants, enabling them to navigate today’s digital world with assurance.
Through the joint efforts of Grameenphone, Telenor, and Plan International Bangladesh, supported by local partners, more than 3.3 million people across the country have been empowered with digital literacy and online safety training tailored to local needs. Since 2023, members of marginalized communities under this initiative have gained access to e-commerce, essential government services, and financial inclusion opportunities.
