Roujatun Nur Borna

University of Rajshahi — Department of Economics

“I grew up in Rangpur. My journey toward higher education came with unexpected challenges. My father, a motorcycle mechanic, became permanently disabled after a road accident, changing our family’s situation overnight. With a family of seven to support, continuing my education was not always easy.

However, I remained focused on my studies. I achieved GPA-5 in both SSC and HSC and prepared for my university admission largely through self-study at home.

Getting into the University of Rajshahi was an important milestone, but moving to a new city brought new responsibilities. Managing living expenses and academic costs while continuing my studies was challenging. During this time, I came across the JAAGO Women Scholarship Program, which provided the support I needed to continue my education and stay focused on my goals.

I hope to build a meaningful career and, in the future, support students like me who are determined to pursue their dreams despite the challenges they face.”

Puja Debnath

University of Dhaka — Soil Science & Water Science Department

“I grew up in a remote rural area, where my high school was five kilometres away. Every day, I walked that distance. Because even though my dreams were big, my resources were limited. My father was the sole earning member in our family, a small business owner in a char (river island) area.

Because of our financial struggles, during my college years, my teachers supported me by teaching me without any fees. I also prepared for my university admission test at a coaching centre run by a friend of one of my college teachers, where I only had to pay a very minimal fee.

Getting into the University of Dhaka was a dream come true, but it also brought new responsibilities. Living in the city without a dormitory seat meant managing my own accommodation, meals, and academic expenses. Balancing studies with these realities has not always been easy.

The JAAGO Women Scholarship Program became a crucial support system in this journey—helping me stay focused on my education and goals. I remain deeply grateful for the opportunities and encouragement that continue to guide me toward a better future.”

Susmita Chakma

Jagannath University — Finance Department

“I come from a remote village in the hill tracts, where access to basic facilities and educational opportunities has always been limited. My community mainly depends on agriculture, and I was the first student from my village to get the opportunity to study at a university.

From a young age, I was passionate about education and consistently performed well in school. Recognising my interest in studies, my aunt brought me to Khagrachhari town so that I could continue my education in a better learning environment. With the support of my teachers and my family’s encouragement, I continued working hard and eventually earned my place at university.

I remember, people used to tell my father why spend so much money on my education when we already have financial constraints. My father used to tell them, “I will keep supporting my daughter no matter what.” When I secured a spot in Jagannath University, I was beaming with joy, knowing how proud my father would be.

But managing the tuition fees, semester costs, and daily expenses in a new city was becoming more and more challenging for my family. That’s when I got to know about JAAGO Women Scholarship Program and applied for it. This scholarship has been a valuable support in this journey, helping me cover essential educational expenses and reducing the financial pressure on my family.

I hope to build a successful career and continue to make my parents proud by giving back to them for all the sacrifices they have made for my education.”