The Board of Directors of Grameenphone (GP), accompanied by senior representatives from Telenor Asia and Plan International Bangladesh, visited Premtoli in Rajshahi to observe how marginalized communities are transforming their lives through the joint initiative “Digital Inclusion for Marginalized Communities.”
Launched in 2023 in partnership with Telenor Asia and Plan International Bangladesh, the programme has already empowered more than 3.3 million people across the country through digital literacy and online safety training designed to meet local needs.
It has enabled participants to access e-commerce, government services and mobile banking, helping them integrate into Bangladesh’s growing digital economy, GP said in a statement on Tuesday.
The delegation included GP Board Chairman and Telenor Asia Head Jon Omund Revhaug, GP Board members, and Plan International Bangladesh Country Director Kabita Bose, alongside senior management from the partner organisations.
During the visit, the team joined a live courtyard session where ethnic community members demonstrated their digital learning. Several participants shared stories of how they use mobile technology to expand small businesses, access public services and earn new income online.
GP Board Chairman and Telenor Asia Head Jon Omund Revhaug said technology has become a catalyst for progress in rural Bangladesh.
“When people gain the skills to use technology, opportunity follows,” he said, adding that Grameenphone and Telenor remain committed to making digital access universal.
GP Chief Executive Officer Yasir Azman said real progress means ensuring everyone benefits from the digital revolution. He noted that the experiences in Rajshahi show how digital literacy programmes can drive social advancement and empower people to take control of their future.
Plan International Bangladesh Country Director Kabita Bose said the project has helped make online spaces safer and more inclusive, especially for girls and young women.
She said strong partnerships with GP, Telenor and local communities made it possible to reach over 3 million people, exceeding the original target of 2.3 million.
The “Digital Inclusion for Marginalized Communities” initiative reflects the shared vision of GP and Telenor to use technology as a tool for empowerment.
By building digital skills at the grassroots, it is driving sustainable growth and confidence among communities once excluded from the digital world.
