October 7, 2025
DHAKA – Although they know how to read and write Bangla and English, many children of the Chakma community do not know the alphabets of their own language. As a result, they are showing less interest in their own language and alphabets.
To preserve his language and culture, Palash Chakma has launched an initiative to teach children of his community their native script in Rangamati’s Baghaichhari.
Palash recently appeared for his honours final exams from Rangamati Government College. After his exams, he went to Nalbania village in Baghaichhari upazila — his home — and set up an educational centre to preserve the Chakma language for children.
Every Friday, Palash teaches children to read and write in their mother language at Nalbania Nalanda Bana Bihar. He also offers religious instructions alongside the language classes.
Palash Chakma said, “I have been working with the Chakma Cultural Council of Bangladesh (CCCB) for a while. This organisation deals with the language, traditions, and culture of the Chakma people. I have learned the Chakma alphabets myself through CCCB.”
He said they have now taken up the programme independently to introduce the Chakma language and alphabets to the young. “I’ve seen that most of our youths are unfamiliar with their own language and script. They’re unable to read the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Chakma people recorded in the language,” he said.
Palash also said they started this initiative from August this year with a small batch of children from the area.
“We’re not taking any money from anyone. It’s entirely self-funded and free of cost.”
Palash said that although the number of students was scant in the beginning, more than 50 are now actively participating in the classes.
He said the foundational tools of a community are its language, tradition, and culture. “Before starting this initiative, we consulted with local residents and guardians. They showed great interest. Many parents cannot read or write in their own language,” he added.
“Currently, I am teaching students from primary to high school. But beyond that, anyone can come and learn,” he said.
Palash said that it would be easier to carry out this programme on a larger scale with the cooperation of others.
Students Shresthi Chakma, Summita Chakma, and Jetavan Chakma spoke to The Daily Star at their new educational institute. They said they had no prior knowledge of the Chakma language before enrolling in the course. “I can now read and write on my own after learning from Palash dada,” said one of the students.
Karbari (village chief) Ramani Mohan Chakma commended Palash’s initiative to teach the Chakma alphabets to children.
“Many of us didn’t know how to read texts in the Chakma language. Now everyone can. It’s a wonderful initiative — it has made our entire village proud,” he added.