Staff Correspondent: Among the notable private initiatives in Bangladesh’s development sector, SEDRO (Social & Education Development and Research Organization) celebrated its 18th founding anniversary on May 15, 2025, with a grand event. The day-long celebration took place at the Newtown Society Hall in Dhaka, attended by representatives and well-wishers from various walks of life.
The organization was born out of a national crisis. In the aftermath of the devastating cyclone Sidr that struck the southwestern region of Bangladesh on November 15, 2007, SEDRO was formed in early 2008. Initially focused on humanitarian relief efforts, the organization gradually expanded into sustainable development activities in education, healthcare, women and child protection, skill development, and environmental preservation.
The chief guest of the celebration was Md. Motasim Billah, a member of the SEDRO Advisory Committee and Joint Convener of Newtown Society, and a noted social worker.
Presided over by the organization`s Vice Chairman, Md. Abu Zafar, the event was attended by representatives from BRAC and other international and local organizations, human rights activists, journalists, volunteers, and beneficiaries.
The program commenced with the national anthem, as everyone stood to pay tribute to SEDRO’s 18 years of humanitarian service.
A documentary showcasing SEDRO’s journey over the past 18 years was presented, illustrating its activities, impact, achievements, and challenges through real-life stories and visuals. This was followed by a panel discussion titled “The Role of NGOs in Social Development: Past, Present, and Future,” where speakers highlighted that despite government support in the development sector, NGOs play the key role in delivering essential humanitarian services at the grassroots level.
In his speech, the founder and Executive Director of SEDRO, Khwaja Masum Bellah Kausarey, said: “SEDRO is not merely an organization—it is a movement, a mission to bring smiles to the faces of the helpless. Our journey began with the urgency to stand by people during disaster. Today, we are implementing various programs across multiple districts in Bangladesh.”
He further shared that SEDRO aims to expand its operations in the following areas in the future: Climate change and environmental protection,youth skill development and employment,mental health services and counseling centers, rural women entrepreneurship development,child protection and early childhood education, cultural initiatives and tree plantation
In the evening, a vibrant cultural program was held featuring patriotic songs and poetry recitations by local artists. The final segment of the event included a symbolic tree plantation ceremony, reaffirming SEDRO’s commitment to a “Greener Bangladesh.”
This 18-year journey is not merely a celebration of time—it is a testament to unwavering dedication in humanitarian service. Through its sustained and expansive efforts, SEDRO has demonstrated that with sincerity, ethics, and commitment to public welfare, a private organization can indeed become a driving force in national development.
The celebration of SEDRO’s success is not just a tribute to its glorious past but also a pledge to shoulder future responsibilities with greater resolve.