The British Council has celebrated the 75th anniversary of its operations in Bangladesh. An event organized at the organization’s Dhaka office highlighted its long-standing contributions to education, English language teaching, arts, and culture, while emphasizing youth potential and future collaboration. The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones, a member of the UK Royal Family, attended the event.
Since opening its first office in Bangladesh in 1951, the British Council has worked to strengthen ties between the people of the two countries through educational and cultural exchanges. Former students, changemakers, dignitaries, and representatives of partner organizations participated in the anniversary celebration.
The event placed special emphasis on the British Council’s youth initiatives and partnerships. Participants highlighted the role of these efforts in education, creativity, and international cooperation.
Duchess Learns About Youth Initiatives
During the event, the Duchess of Edinburgh spoke with young people involved in women’s empowerment, eco-friendly initiatives, and international education programs, inquiring about their work and experiences.
She was presented with a painting by a winning student of an artwork competition organized for British Council’s young learners. The competition was held in connection with the international ‘Xu Bing Space Art Residency Competition 2026-27’.
The competition encouraged students to imagine the possibilities of art beyond Earth. Its central theme focused on how art, science, and space together can foster human connection and advance the vision of a peaceful future.
75 Years in Education, Culture, and International Cooperation
Over its 75 years in Bangladesh, the British Council has partnered with individuals, educational institutions, and communities. Its programs in promoting English language learning, expanding educational access, and cultural exchange have engaged generations of students, teachers, artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
The event highlighted three primary areas of the organization’s work: youth empowerment, nurturing culture and creativity, and building partnerships for international cooperation.
Alumni associated with green entrepreneurship, ‘Women of the World’, and international education and scholarship networks shared their experiences. They noted that these initiatives created new employment opportunities and opened avenues for broader engagement beyond Bangladesh.
Focus on Skill Development for Future Generations
Stephen Forbes, Country Director of British Council Bangladesh, said the organization has been working for 75 years to create opportunities through education, the English language, and the arts. He noted that as the country’s needs and goals evolve, the nature of their work must also adapt.
He emphasized the need to equip young people with the skills, confidence, and international connections required to build their own futures, while expressing hope for expanding areas of cooperation between Bangladesh and the UK.
Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A. B. M. Obaidul Islam said the histories of Dhaka University and the British Council have been intertwined for generations. He noted that both institutions have been long-standing partners in education, dialogue, culture, and global connectivity.
He stressed that future generations must acquire new skills, a global perspective, digital capabilities, creativity, and resilience to face challenges, making continued collaboration between universities and organizations like the British Council essential.
The event was part of a series of celebrations marking the British Council’s 75th anniversary in Bangladesh. The organization stated it will continue fostering mutual learning and lasting relationships between the people of Bangladesh and the UK through education, English language, arts, and culture.
More by Sarakhon Report
Police Transfers Seven ASPs With November Deadline
Sundarbans Overnight Passes Suspended After Tourist’s Death
150 RMG Factories Shut Amid Unrest as Owners Invoke No Work No Pay
Miscreants Leave Shrouds and Death Threat Notes at Two Kushtia Homes
