Al Mamun । NEW JERSEY— July 18, 2026:
The Computer Literacy Program (CLP) successfully concluded its annual Face-to-Face Convention 2026 under the theme “CLP New Horizon,” bringing together community leaders, educators, volunteers, donors, and supporters for an inspiring evening dedicated to education, technology, artificial intelligence, and youth empowerment.
Held at the Rutgers College Avenue Student Center in New Brunswick, New Jersey, the convention marked more than two decades of CLP’s mission to bridge the digital divide and transform the lives of underprivileged youth in Bangladesh through technology-based education.
The event celebrated CLP’s remarkable 23-year journey of empowering students, strengthening digital education, and creating opportunities for disadvantaged communities through innovation, volunteerism, and global collaboration.
The program officially began at 6:30 p.m. (U.S. Eastern Time), July 18, 2026 with a welcome address by Ms. Afnan Zeb (Auditi), followed by a keynote presentation from Mr. Muhit Rahman, who highlighted the importance of education, social responsibility, and community-driven initiatives in creating meaningful change.
The evening was hosted by two emcees, Dr. Faruque Azam and Ms. Sabina Rupa, who guided the audience through the program with professionalism, warmth, and enthusiasm.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Azam shared a humorous reflection about his connection with CLP, saying he is now known as “the father of Nashita Azam, who served as the emcee at CLP last year.” He joked that as people grow older, they are often recognized through their children and families.
Dr. Azam emphasized CLP’s important role in preparing young people for a rapidly changing global environment. He highlighted the importance of English communication skills and discussed the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), noting that while computer literacy was once considered essential, AI literacy is becoming a critical skill for future success.
The convention featured several presentations showcasing CLP’s continued growth and transformation, including its English communication initiatives, youth development programs, Smart Classroom projects, and the introduction of Shikkha Saathi, an AI-powered educational assistant designed to support teachers and improve learning outcomes.
Speakers discussed how technology and innovation are reshaping education by helping teachers create better lesson plans, develop educational content, manage classrooms more effectively, assess student progress, and provide more personalized learning experiences.
CLP leaders emphasized that the organization’s mission has evolved beyond basic computer literacy. Today, CLP is focused on preparing students and educators for the digital economy by integrating technology, AI, communication skills, and employability training into its programs.
A special recognition segment honored entrepreneur and philanthropist Mr. Zaki Hossain for his extraordinary generosity and continued support of CLP’s educational mission.
Speakers praised Mr. Hossain’s commitment to giving back to society and recognized his contributions as an example of how individuals can create lasting positive change through philanthropy.
During his remarks, Mr. Hossain shared valuable suggestions on strengthening CLP’s long-term sustainability. He encouraged the organization to explore diversified funding models, expand strategic partnerships, develop sustainable fundraising initiatives, and continue investing in innovative technology-based education programs.
He emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation that will allow CLP to continue serving future generations while reducing dependency on short-term support. His recommendations were warmly received by attendees and reflected a shared commitment to ensuring CLP’s continued growth and impact.
Financial Update and 2026 Expansion Goals
During the financial presentation, CLP Treasurer Amzad Khan highlighted the organization’s achievements and future goals.
He explained that generous donor support has enabled thousands of Bangladeshi students to gain digital literacy through CLP’s Computer Literacy Centers to include Smart Classrooms, English Clubs, teacher development initiatives, and the newly introduced AI-powered platform Shikkha Saathi.
“None of this happened by chance, and none of it happened for free,” Khan stated, emphasizing that CLP’s achievements have been made possible through the dedication of volunteers, donors, and supporters.
Outlining CLP’s 2026 financial requirements, Khan announced that the organization needs $155,000to establish 15 new learning facilities, train 200 teachers, revive 50 inactive centers, expand the Shikkha Saathi platform, and reach approximately 120,000 learners across Bangladesh.
The appeal received an enthusiastic response from supporters, who contributed $72,000 in donations and pledges by the conclusion of the evening.
Founder Reflects on CLP’s Mission and Future
In a special interview, CLP Founder Dr. Mohammad Farooque reflected on the organization’s remarkable journey since its launch in 2004 by a group of expatriate Bangladeshis in New Jersey. Although CLP officially began its activities in 2004, its first fundraising event was held in May of that year after the initiative had already been launched. Today, CLP proudly marks 23 years of advancing digital literacy, education, and community empowerment.
“Since 2004, CLP has been empowering underprivileged youth across Bangladesh by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the modern world,” Dr. Farooque said.
He explained that CLP has achieved this mission by establishing technology infrastructure, including computer laboratories and Smart Classrooms, while offering educational and co-curricular programs that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.
Dr. Farooque emphasized that teachers remain at the heart of quality education, which is why CLP continues to prioritize teacher training and professional development. The organization is also focused on preparing job-ready youth by strengthening their digital, technical, and employability skills.
Discussing CLP’s future direction, he highlighted the development of an AI-powered educational platform designed to make teachers more efficient and effective. The platform aims to assist educators with lesson planning, content creation, classroom management, student assessment, and personalized learning.
CLP’s 23 Years of Impact
Since its founding, CLP has expanded its reach throughout Bangladesh, operating across 57 districts and providing computer literacy training to more than 164,000 students, with nearly half of the participants being female.
The organization currently operates hundreds of Computer Literacy Centers, Associate Centers, and Smart Classrooms, while continuously training teachers in digital education and modern learning techniques.
Over the years, CLP has evolved through mi multiple phases—from foundational computer literacy programs and Smart Classrooms to global education initiatives, remote volunteer teaching, e-learning, freelancing training, and Artificial Intelligence-based education solutions.
Closing Celebration Honors Volunteers and CLP’s Lasting Legacy
The convention concluded on a celebratory note with cultural performances by youth volunteers and invited artists, showcasing the talent and vibrant spirit of the CLP community. The evening wrapped up with a heartfelt vote of thanks, followed by a volunteer-led cleanup effort that reflected the organization’s enduring culture of teamwork, humility, and service.
Delivering the closing remarks, Dr. Motasim Billah reflected on CLP’s inspiring journey since its founding in 2004 by a group of expatriate Bangladeshis in New Jersey. He noted that what began as a grassroots initiative has grown into one of Bangladesh’s most impactful volunteer-driven educational organizations, empowering thousands of underprivileged students through technology and innovation.
Dr. Billah credited CLP’s continued success to the unwavering dedication of its volunteers, the generosity of donors and sponsors, the leadership of its board members, and the passion of youth volunteers who have worked tirelessly to expand educational opportunities across Bangladesh.
He also paid special tribute to longtime volunteer photographer Ahsanul Karim (Murad) for his years of dedicated service in documenting CLP’s journey and preserving its history through photography. Dr. Billah concluded by expressing sincere gratitude to CLP’s prime donors and supporters, whose continued financial contributions have played a vital role in sustaining and expanding the organization’s educational and humanitarian programs over the past 23 years.
US Bangla Tribune served as the Official Media Partner of the CLP Annual New Jersey Convention 2026, highlighting the organization’s achievements and its ongoing mission to empower future generations through education, technology, innovation, and compassion.
All Photo Credit: https://karim.smugmug.com
