Shaheen Cares Trust (SCT), a non-profit charitable organisation initiated by former students of BAF Shaheen College, has officially launched with the vision of “Building Dignified Futures, Together”.
The inauguration ceremony was held at Banani Club in the capital on Friday evening, marking a new chapter in humanitarian and social welfare initiatives by the college’s alumni, reads a press release.
Initiated by the 1989 batch of BAF Shaheen College, the trust was formed following two years of extensive discussions, meetings and social consultations.
Upholding the motto “Education, Restraint, Discipline”, SCT aims to eliminate discrimination and secure a dignified future for underprivileged people and individuals with special needs.
The trust also aims to serve as a global platform connecting generations of Shaheens across Bangladesh, North America, Europe and Australia.
The programme began with a recitation from the Holy Quran. Children with special needs then performed the national anthem in sign language, adding an emotional dimension to the event.
In his welcome address, Shaheen Cares Trust Chairperson Data Magfur emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships and sustainable social impact.
“We are proud to support this meaningful initiative that drives sustainable impact. Our commitment remains strong in fostering growth and empowering communities through this partnership,” he said.
During the ‘Journey of ’89’ segment, SCT Board Member and master of ceremonies Shahnaz Sharmeen shared the story behind the trust’s inception.
She explained how the former classmates, after pursuing their respective professional careers, felt a strong desire to give back to society, leading to the idea of establishing the trust. She also acknowledged the support of non-resident Bangladeshi (NRB) friends and local batchmates who worked behind the scenes to make the initiative possible.
A documentary titled ‘The Journey of ’89’ showcased their shared memories and the roots of the trust.
The main highlight of the evening was a cake-cutting ceremony attended by the trustees, marking the trust’s official launch. Its website was also formally launched to establish its digital and global presence.
Following the launch, SCT General Secretary Sumana Binte Masud outlined the trust’s strategic goals and five core pillars.
These include supporting children with special needs by creating pathways to skills, inclusion and independence; improving youth employability through skills development, vocational training and career opportunities; and developing dignified and sustainable care systems for older people.
The other pillars are organisational sustainability, which focuses on helping non-profit organisations strengthen their systems and develop independent income sources, and Shaheen Community Care, which aims to support members of the wider Shaheen family, including former teachers, during times of genuine need.
Sumana also introduced strategic partner Satarkul Protibondhi Unnayan Sangstha (SPUS) and outlined the framework for collaboration between the two organisations.
Shaheen Cares Trust and SPUS signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to implement their first joint initiative over three years, from 2026 to 2029, in Satarkul, Dhaka. The initiative will focus on the empowerment, education and self-reliance of individuals with special needs.
Sumana signed the agreement on behalf of SCT, while SPUS General Secretary Ujjwala Bonik signed on behalf of the organisation.
Expressing gratitude to the trust, Ujjwala said, “If everyone steps forward like this for underprivileged children, it will be very much possible to bring these children into the mainstream of society. We believe this partnership marks a significant milestone in achieving our shared vision. This collaboration creates an incredible opportunity to turn our strategic goals into reality.”
A cultural performance by children from SPUS deeply moved the audience.
Former students of BAF Shaheen College, Dhaka, prominent social workers, distinguished citizens and officials from various non-governmental organisations attended the event.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by SCT Treasurer Anisuzzaman Naser Khan, who invited all former Shaheens to join the trust’s spirit of service.
