Puthia event marks international year of cooperatives 2025

A discussion and cultural event in Puthia, Rajshahi, on 20 September marked the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, themed "Cooperatives for inclusive and sustainable development towards a better world."

Heifer International Bangladesh and Wave Foundation organised the event at Paresh Narayan Government High School, with support from several women's cooperative societies, including Jinia Mohila Samabay Ltd, among others.

Shibu Das, Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Assistant Commissioner (Land), served as the chief guest. Other notable attendees included Abu Motallem, Upazila Cooperative Officer of Puthia; Abdulla Al Mamun, Regional Manager (Cooperative) of Heifer International; Prashanta Kumar Chowdhury, Head Teacher of Paresh Narayan Government High School; and Mazharul Islam, Head Teacher of Puthia Girls' High School.

Khadija Khatun, President of Jinia Cooperative Society, presided over the event. Nirmal Das, Assistant Director of Wave Foundation, conducted the programme, while Abdullah Seru, Communication Manager, and Harun-or-Rashid, Regional Manager of Heifer International, also attended.

The discussions emphasised the importance of cooperatives in promoting inclusive growth, empowering women, and fostering sustainable community development. Participants proposed practical steps to strengthen local cooperative initiatives, and many expressed renewed motivation to apply cooperative principles in their communities. The cultural segment featured performances that celebrated unity and cooperation, which were well-received and inspired a stronger sense of collective purpose.