BRAC Academy expands operations with Dhaka campus

BRAC Academy has officially begun its journey in Dhaka, with a focus on quality education and the holistic development of children.

Emphasising values-based learning, the academy aims to nurture curiosity, instil respect and responsibility, and support students in becoming confident and capable individuals.

Launched with its first branch in Cumilla in 2019, BRAC Academy currently operates in Cumilla, Bogura, Rajshahi and Dhaka. The academy is set to expand to Chattogram, Sylhet, Jashore and Noakhali later this month. Its primary objective is to provide affordable, quality education to children in district towns and urban centres.

The BRAC Academy campus in Dakshinkhan, Dhaka, was formally inaugurated on 8 January by Managing Director of BRAC Enterprises Tamara Hasan Abed. Speaking at the ceremony, she said that quality education requires more than buildings or infrastructure, and must be rooted in authentic, research-based learning. Drawing on BRAC's long-standing experience in the education sector, she said the academy has been established to ensure children receive education of international standards.

Referring to the heavy reliance on memorisation in the existing education system, Tamara Hasan Abed said the country needs well-rounded and creative individuals to move forward. She added that BRAC Academy is providing meaningful education that encourages children to think independently, express themselves and develop self-confidence.

In his closing remarks, Director of BRAC's Education, Skills Development and Migration Programme Safi Rahman Khan said that although pass rates and the number of universities have increased, the development of skills and critical thinking remains limited. He said BRAC Academy aims to nurture children in a way that enables independent thinking and decision-making.

The opening remarks were delivered by Niveen Reza, head of social enterprise at BRAC's Education Programme. She said the academy's activities and learning approach have been designed in line with education systems followed by countries with advanced education sectors.

Parents Fakhrunnesa Lima and Ishrat Jahan also shared their experiences at the event. Guests enjoyed cultural performances by the academy's students and toured the campus before the ceremony.

BRAC Academy offers primary education from play group to Grade Five for children aged four years and above. The academy follows a bilingual Bangla–English system, with a strong emphasis on Bangla while gradually introducing English through age-appropriate activities to develop effective communication skills in both languages.

Alongside the national curriculum, BRAC Academy supports students in building essential life skills. Its learning materials meet global standards while remaining adapted to the Bangladeshi context.

With a vision to establish a child-centred and affordable education network across Bangladesh, BRAC Academy aims to prepare the younger generation for future leadership roles and provide middle-income families with a credible alternative to costly private schools.