–Nafia Saddaf–

In Bangladesh, the Sirajganj district is highly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, facing frequent floods, which cause riverbank erosion and displacement. These issues directly affect the livelihood of the residents.
Consequently, social concerns like early marriages for young females whereas boys prematurely take over family responsibilities after a male guardian’s death arise. The matter of education among girls still remains a question.
While education is increasingly recognized as a necessity for each child in the household, some struggle to have proper access to education for their children. A recent field survey conducted in October 2024, highlights the advancement and barriers to education in the char lands (accreted river island), informal settlements, and relocation sites of the Sirajganj areas.
–EDUCATIONAL ACCESS AND BARRIERS IN DIFFERENT SITES–
IN THE CHAR LANDS
We have found in char land that many girls are unable to complete their education in school. The highest they study is up to secondary class (till grade 9) on average. This is a progressive sign as compared to previous generations, where people were totally against girls’ education. However, the persistent threat of early marriage is not yet solved.
In these areas, livelihoods get washed away along with the erosion. Such constant looming threats result in a daughter’s early marriage in order to secure the family’s future. Due to rapid displacement and financial constraints, families see early marriage as a solution to ensure their daughter’s survival, safety, and to get rid of the responsibility over the daughter which they consider as a burden.
IN THE INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS
The children are shown to be going to school from an early age, despite having limitations of basic needs in the area. A great credit goes to community awareness and social networks. While girls’ educational advancement is still limited, the resettlement sites still fare well compared to other areas.
The limitation in accessing basic needs is quite the primary concern in this region, so education seems more of a luxury to the community rather than a priority. Hence, the economic loss of incomplete education of youth is impacting their contribution, prospects, and identity in society.
IN THE PLANNED RELOCATION SITES
The planned relocation sites created by the government in Sirajganj create a unique opportunity for educational advancement. The government has provided housing, security, and education institutions for the displaced population.
Despite having accessibility, and resources, the cultural norm overshadows and becomes a barrier to young female education. Boys are generally given more freedom in educational decision-making while in contrast girls remain suppressed by societal and family expectations.
Schooling is not prioritized as it should be, particularly for girls. Repeated displacement exacerbates doing household chores. Girls are forced into early marriage and motherhood. They are deprived of the opportunities for growth and skill development.
Education opens the door to better employment opportunities, health, and economic security to contribute to their household
A PATH FORWARD: BUILDING A RESILIENT FUTURE BY EMPOWERING YOUTH
Addressing the educational needs of girls in Sirajganj requires a collaborative commitment from all the stakeholders: Government, NGOs, community leaders, families, and women themselves.
The barriers in this education are challenging as climate vulnerabilities intertwine with cultural norms and socio-economic factors. Sirajganj can create a stronger and more resilient future for the girls by addressing these issues and resources.
The empowerment of girls in education can benefit both girls and the whole community. Empowering girls to pursue education can be transformative for regions such as Sirajganj. Education opens the door to better employment opportunities, health, and economic security to contribute to their household. Education also goes beyond individual advancement and builds up a resilient and adaptable community.
The education of girls is the key to breaking the traditional limitations and creating their identity for themselves in society. Girls who continue their education are more knowledgeable and aware of surrounding knowledge, health issues, and contribute to economic stability, and are more adaptable to climate challenges.
The girls who continue their education will remain resilient advocates for sustainable practices and spread knowledge. Investing in and empowering girls’ education has the potential to transform the non-economic losses into positive long-term change.
With the right amount of support, Sirajganj can become a region where girls can dream and enjoy their freedom. Sirajganj can set an example for other districts for the upcoming generation to be empowered, educated, strong young women who can lead their communities to a sustainable and resilient future.
Nafia Saddaf is working in the International Centre for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD) as a Junior Research Officer. Email: [email protected]