Dhaka DC Farida Khanom steps in to send 8-year-old peanut vendor Hasan to school
Staff Correspondent
In a compassionate initiative to safeguard child rights and promote primary education, Dhaka Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanom has taken full responsibility for enrolling eight-year-old street vendor Hasan into school, while providing financial assistance to support his bereaved family.
The eight-year-old child, who was forced to sell peanuts on the streets to support his impoverished family following his father's death after a prolonged illness, met with the Deputy Commissioner alongside his family members at her office premises on Sunday at 3:00 pm.
During the meeting, DC Farida Khanam inquired about their socio-economic difficulties and immediately arranged for Hasan's formal school admission, handing over cash assistance to aid the family's livelihood.
Hasan currently resides in a rented house in the city's Baridhara area with his mother, sister, and two brothers. Following his father's demise, severe financial constraints compelled the young boy to work as a street vendor to help sustain the family, depriving him of formal schooling. Upon being informed of Hasan's plight, the Deputy Commissioner summoned the child to her office to intervene.
Highlighting the state's obligation to protect vulnerable children, Dhaka Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanam stated, "Education is a fundamental right of every child. It is our moral and social responsibility to ensure that no child is deprived of education due to poverty or financial insolvency. Books and notebooks—not the burden of labor—must be placed in a child's hands. Collective efforts from both the government and society are essential to guarantee a safe childhood, the right to education, and a promising future for every child."
She further emphasized that supporting underprivileged children like Hasan is a responsible step toward building their future, calling on all stakeholders to remain vigilant so that no child drops out of school due to socio-economic hardship.
The administration's prompt intervention has brought renewed hope to Hasan and his family as he prepares to transition from street vending to the classroom.
